Hearts Land Brazilian Playmaker Lucca Prior in Record‑Challenging €34M Deal
EDINBURGH – Heart of Midlothian have pulled off one of the biggest transfer coups in their modern history, securing the signature of highly rated Brazilian attacking midfielder Lucca Prior from Fortaleza Esporte Clube for a reported fee of €34 million. The 22‑year‑old has agreed and formally signed a five‑year contract, with full official release due once all administrative checks, documentation and medical requirements are fully finalised. Hearts fought off fierce late competition from Scottish Premiership rivals Rangers FC and English Premier League side West Ham United to beat multiple suitors and bring the South American talent to Tynecastle Park.
Prior’s development path traces from the youth ranks of Athletico‑Paranaense through to Fortaleza, where he advanced systematically through the U‑20 and U‑23 squads before signing his first senior professional terms in 2025. That breakthrough season delivered steady first‑team involvement and measurable returns: he registered one goal in Campeonato Brasileiro Série B and added two further strikes during the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, while also earning valuable continental exposure with three appearances in the Copa Libertadores. Operating as a clever, technically sharp attacking midfielder capable of linking play and creating space between opposition lines, he evolved from a promising academy graduate into a reliable rotational and impact option within Fortaleza’s senior setup.
“He is exactly the kind of player we have targeted — young, technically gifted, already tested at high‑level domestic and South American competition, and hungry to progress further,” Hearts’ sporting director commented. “Winning this race ahead of established British clubs shows the clear ambition and appeal of our project. This is a major statement for the club and for our competitive standing both domestically and in European qualification rounds ahead.”
For Fortaleza, the fee ranks among the largest in the club’s history, delivering substantial resources for squad planning and facility upgrades. Prior will follow a growing pipeline of Brazilian talent moving to the Scottish league, bringing close control, tempo‑changing ability and attacking vision tailored to fit Hearts’ preferred style. He is expected to travel to Edinburgh imminently to complete formalities and join pre‑season preparations.
Leave a Reply