With the opening of the Chinese Super League (CSL) winter transfer window, news about transfers has been pouring in. As the reigning champions of the CSL, Harbor FC has been particularly active with transfer rumors. According to the latest report from "Sports Weekly," Harbor FC has essentially secured Matheus Vital, the tough midfielder from Brazilian club Cruzeiro, pending an official announcement.
It is reported that as early as before Christmas, Harbor FC had contact with Matheus Vital. At the time, many teams were pursuing him, and he was once close to transferring to a Mexican club. However, Harbor FC ultimately won Vital's favor with their advantages and sincerity. Vital was not included in the list of players who traveled to the United States for training last weekend and has been listed among the team's 10 players set to leave. Notably, it is said that his transfer fee is less than 400,000 euros. If this is true, considering his performance in the Brazilian league, it would be a great deal. Harbor FC has effectively bought a big treasure at a bargain price.
After the 2024 season, Harbor FC quickly identified Vital as a key target for recruitment. Vital is only 26 years old, in his prime. As a versatile midfielder, he can play as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, and even on the wing, with very comprehensive skills and strong tactical adaptability, capable of injecting new vitality into Harbor's midfield creativity. According to sources, the Harbor coaching staff prefers to have Vital replace Chi Tadini, taking on a role similar to the No. 8 organizing midfielder. As for the rumored replacement for Oscar, Harbor FC still needs to continue searching for candidates. It is expected that after securing Vital, the replacement for Oscar will soon emerge.
It is understood that Vital has already set off for Abu Dhabi to meet with Shanghai Harbor and undergo a medical examination. He shared a photo of his flight on social media, further confirming the reality of the transfer. Unless there are any unexpected developments, upon arrival, he will immediately undergo a medical examination and adjust his condition while waiting for the completion of formalities. It seems that this deal is as good as done.
Undoubtedly, Vital's joining is significant for Shanghai Harbor. With the departure of foreign players such as Oscar, Bargas, and Chi Tadini, the team urgently needs to replenish fresh blood and rebuild its tactical system. Vital's arrival will not only enhance the control of the midfield but also make the team more balanced in attack and defense, finding a reliable successor for Chi Tadini.
As for the replacement for Oscar, it is expected that Shanghai Harbor will need to continue searching carefully. After all, finding a midfielder who plays such an important role is not easy. Shanghai Harbor needs to keep their eyes open and scrutinize carefully. If they find the right player, the CSL championship could still be theirs; if not, it remains to be seen.