Fabricio Bruno refuses to speak to media as West Ham United close in on transfer
Fabricio Bruno refused to speak to the media following Flamengo’s Copa Libertadores win as a move to West Ham United draws nearer, according to the Standard.
The report on 29 May shares that talks between the two clubs over a £15million move – comprised of £12.5m plus up to £2.5m in add-ons – have “progressed well”.
Bruno was an unused substitute as Flamengo beat Colombian side Millonarios 3-0 in their final Libertadores group game.
How good a signing would Fabricio Bruno be for West Ham United?
Bruno appears an odd target for new head coach Julen Lopetegui at first glance.
The central defender is 28 years old and has never played outside of Brazil – coming through the ranks at Cruzeiro and featuring for Chapecoense and RB Bragantino before joining present side Flamengo in February 2022.
However, the starring role he played at the heart of defence with the national team when Brazil stifled England and won 1-0 at Wembley on 23 March caught the eye of several prospective suitors – West Ham included – and the Brazilian now looks set to make London his permanent home.
Bruno has completed 281 passes in five Brazilian Serie A appearances this year at an accuracy of 90.9 per cent and has taken 360 touches, demonstrating his quality on the ball [FotMob].
He has also won 81.8 per cent of his duels and made 19 recoveries, evidencing his ability to defend aggressively as well.
The Hammers will hope he can help them hit greater heights under Lopetegui next season.
In other West Ham news, the club have been urged to use Arsenal’s “unbelievable” transfer model.
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