André Jardine has found the perfect replacement for Fidalgo
The América coach assured that he knows the player perfectly and confirmed that negotiations are at an advanced stage.
One of América’s most significant losses in the winter transfer window was Álvaro Fidalgo, who left for Betis. But head coach André Jardine already has his eyes on the midfielder he hopes will replace the Spanish‑born Mexican.
Jardine confirmed that the club is in advanced negotiations with Vinicius Lima, a Brazilian midfielder he knows well from his time coaching in Grêmio’s youth system. When describing the type of player Lima is, Jardine emphasized his versatility — a trait that would allow América to use him in multiple midfield roles, much like they did with Fidalgo.
“Hopefully we can finalize this deal. I think it’s well advanced,” Jardine said after América’s 1–0 win over Monterrey.. “He’s a player I’ve known for a long time — he was with me in the academy. What I like most is his ability to play practically any midfield role, similar to how we used Fidalgo. He loves having the ball… I hope it gets done because I think he’ll contribute a lot.”
Reports indicate that Lima would arrive on a one‑year loan from Fluminense, where he is not currently a regular starter. His signing would need to be completed soon, as the registration window closes on February 9.
If the deal goes through, América would add yet another Brazilian to its roster. In addition to the coaching staff, the squad already includes players like Rodrigo Dourado and Raphael Veiga.
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