Done Deal
Major League Soccer expansion side Charlotte FC have signed Brazilian talent Vinicius Mello. The 19-year-old joins from Brazilian Série A side Sport Club Internacional. The forward will join on Jan. 1, 2022, and be part of the MLS U22 initiative, and sign a contract until 2025 with an option for 2026. UOL Esporte in Brazil has reported that Charlotte have paid $1.8 million for 60% of the player’s rights. Internacional will receive 20% of any future deal.
“We’re excited to bring in a player of Vinicius’ potential to Charlotte FC. He’s been a proven goal scorer in the youth ranks at Internacional, but is still very new to senior football despite already playing in the Brazilian topflight and Copa Libertadores,” said sporting director Zoran Krneta in a club statement. Currently a part of the U20 setup at Internacional, Vinicius Mello has made 13 appearances for the senior team this season (no goals). Mello becomes the second most expensive signing in club history (overview).
Hello Mello pic.twitter.com/WyuYpVUABi
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) December 13, 2021