Club América Scours Brazilian Football for Midfield Reinforcement in Clausura 2026

Club América are off to a difficult start in the Clausura 2026, and the club’s front office is actively exploring options to strengthen the squad—particularly in midfield, an area the coaching staff views as essential to reversing the current slump.

Despite consistent investment in recent tournaments, completing signings during this winter transfer window has proven challenging. Financial constraints have slowed down negotiations that already had technical approval, a situation that has carried over into the current market. América’s main objective is to sign a Brazilian-based midfielder valued at around five million dollars.

So far, however, the club has been unable to close a deal for the player currently with Athletico Paranaense, largely due to the high transfer fee involved. According to journalist Héctor Huerta, the player André Jardine wants to bring to Coapa is Bruno Zapelli.

The 23-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder joined Athletico Paranaense in 2023 from Belgrano and has since established himself in Brazilian football. Zapelli has already logged 137 appearances in the Brazilian league, registering 11 goals and 23 assists—numbers that have caught Jardine’s attention, as he sees the midfielder as an ideal fit to inject creativity and dynamism into América’s midfield.

For now, the player’s price tag remains the main obstacle. Talks have not progressed beyond initial interest and scouting inquiries, as the club waits to find enough financial flexibility to formally negotiate.

After three matchdays, América sit 15th in the standings with two draws and one loss, no goals scored and two conceded. The poor start has increased pressure in Coapa and forces the club to make swift decisions if it hopes to change the course of the Clausura 2026.