Fortaleza move fast with key signings to rescue season | OneFootball

Fortaleza are set to bolster their squad with two new signings, addressing weaknesses exposed by recent injuries and a period of transition off the pitch, according to Diário do Nordeste and Globo. The club has agreed terms with goalkeeper Vinícius Silvestre, formerly of Palmeiras and most recently at Portimonense, as well as left-back Weverson Costa, who arrives following a stint at Arouca in Portugal.

Vinícius Silvestre, 31, lands in Fortaleza at a time of need, with first-choice João Ricardo and his understudy Brenno both ruled out for around six weeks after undergoing surgery. Silvestre, a product of the Palmeiras academy, has amassed experience in Brazil’s top flight and played 51 matches for Portimonense over two seasons. He has already bid farewell to his former club and is expected to sign a contract with Fortaleza through to 2026.

The goalkeeper’s arrival is crucial, given the club have had to turn to the inexperienced duo of Magrão, 25, and Eduardo Salvador, 19, in recent matches. With caretaker coach Léo Porto currently overseeing first-team affairs after the departure of Juan Pablo Vojvoda, Silvestre’s leadership is likely to be valued as Fortaleza aim to restore stability and reclaim form in Série A.

Meanwhile, Fortaleza have also secured the services of Weverson Costa, 25, who was a free agent after leaving Arouca. Weverson came up through São Paulo’s academy and also featured for RB Bragantino before moving to Portugal in 2022. Across three seasons in the Portuguese league, he made 63 appearances, scoring two goals and providing four assists. He has represented Brazil at youth level, including participating in the 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.

The left-back’s signing plugs a significant gap in the squad. Previously, manager Vojvoda was forced to improvise in the position, using right-back Eros Mancuso and centre-back Gastón Ávila on the left, with Diogo Barbosa the only specialist option. Weverson offers a natural solution and brings continental experience to the back line.

Both arrivals are subject to the completion of contract formalities, but announcements are expected soon. The club has moved rapidly in the market to steady things amid ongoing uncertainty, and these reinforcements should give caretaker Léo Porto more options as he steers the side while a search for a new permanent manager continues.

Fortaleza’s new additions underline a sharp response to the demands of a long campaign, as they aim to overcome recent setbacks and push for consistency in the league.