The pursuit of goalkeeper Lucas Arcanjo by Fluminense is heating up as the club looks to bolster its squad for the upcoming season. Arcanjo, currently plying his trade at Vitória, has been making waves since he joined the professional ranks back in 2020. Fast forward to 2024, and the 26-year-old has solidified his status as one of the standout players for his team, especially during their recent campaign to secure their spot in the Série A of the Campeonato Brasileiro.
Formed through Vitória’s youth system, Arcanjo has seen significant action this past season, participating in 50 matches, during which he conceded 62 goals. Notably, he kept his net clean for 13 games, showcasing his ability to protect the goal effectively. Across his career at Vitória, he has made 175 appearances, letting through 170 goals but managing to achieve 68 clean sheets, solidifying his reputation as a reliable last line of defense.
Fluminense's interest is not just casual; they have reportedly made an official proposal for the goalkeeper as they prepare for the 2025 season. Initial reports suggest the offer is hovering around R$ 6 million. The club is motivated by the impending departure of Felipe Alves, who will not renew his contract, and 44-year-old Fábio, who is also approaching the twilight of his career. The Tricolor Carioca sees Arcanjo as the ideal replacement for one or both of these veteran players, positioning him for what could be the next phase of his career at one of Brazil's prominent clubs.
The negotiations between Fluminense and Vitória have been confirmed by several sources. Fábio Mota, the president of Vitória, acknowledged the proposal and stated, "Chegou uma proposta para Lucas e estamos analisando." This translates to "A proposal for Lucas has arrived, and we are analyzing it." It's clear the interest is serious, and discussions are actively underway.
Despite Arcanjo’s contract with Vitória running until the end of 2026, he recently extended this agreement until 2027, which adds another layer to the negotiations. Interestingly, this renewal announcement coincided with Vitória's victory over Fluminense, when they triumphed 1-0 at the Maracanã Stadium. It has raised eyebrows as fans wonder about the club’s intentions and the player’s desire to remain with his current team versus moving to one with perhaps more financial backing and greater visibility.
For Fluminense, making this move makes sense not only for the immediate future but also considering the state of their goalkeeper roster. Following the rumored exit of Felipe Alves, the club currently has only two other keepers: Vitor Eudes, 26, and experienced guardian Fábio, who is occupying the senior slot but may look to retire soon. The age and experience of Fábio boost the squad’s depth, but his uncertain future leaves room for transition.
Lucas Arcanjo's background is integral to this potential transfer. He made the leap to professional football after years developing at the youth level. His steady rise through Vitória's ranks is noteworthy; he has not only secured the number one spot on the team but has also contributed significantly to their success. His accolades include winning the Série B championship and the Campeonato Baiano, both achieved recently, as well as enhancing his skills significantly during the high-pressure matches of the Série A.
He has become more than just a solid keeper; he’s seen as one of the most valuable assets by his club. Fan support of Arcanjo is evident as he has won the hearts of many rubro-negros (red and blacks), with supporters expressing palpable concern over his potential departure. The impact of such a move would send ripples through the fanbase and the club alike, emphasizing just what Arcanjo has come to represent for Vitória, where he's built such deep ties.
The urgency of Fluminense to nail down their target is compounded by the player’s value. A report indicated concerns from Galícia, the other club involved, since they retain 30% of the economic rights to Arcanjo. This aspect means any transfer fee will necessitate splitting it, giving them considerable leverage within negotiations. It is unclear what stance they will take should negotiations move forward, but their involvement could influence how much Fluminense ends up paying for the keeper.
Should Arcanjo make the move to Fluminense, he would be joining a club that's not just historic but one currently enjoying considerable success. Fluminense claimed the Copa do Brasil and the Libertadores title recently, presenting Arcanjo with the prospect of competing on various fronts. Joining such prestigious clubs often proves to be huge for players' careers, and Arcanjo may very well be eyeing this opportunity to boost his own reputation.
Moving forward, the negotiations will likely intensify as Fluminense seeks to finalize their squad for the coming year. The clock is ticking with the current season still wrapped up, and Arcanjo will undoubtedly be the focal point of attention. Fans from all sides will be hoping to see their teams reinforced or their star players retained as the transfer window opens wider with promise and uncertainty. Only time will tell where Arcanjo will land when the dust settles—whether he remains loyal to Vitória or makes the leap to Fluminense, chasing new dreams of glory with the Tricolor family.
