V.League giants lose chance to sign Cape Verde goalkeeper

V.League clubs are nearly out of the race to sign goalkeeper Vozinha, as the Cape Verde international has attracted interest from several major teams after the 2026 World Cup.

V.League clubs almost have no chance left to acquire goalkeeper Vozinha, after the Cape Verde shot-stopper unexpectedly became a sensation at the 2026 World Cup. Although he was once of interest to several Vietnamese clubs, recent developments in the transfer market suggest that the 40-year-old goalkeeper's next destination is unlikely to be the V.League.

Vozinha officially expired his contract with Chaves on June 30 and became a free agent. Before leaving the Portuguese club, the 1986-born goalkeeper stated that he had not reached an agreement with any club and insisted he wanted to continue playing rather than consider retirement. This is seen as a favorable time for interested clubs to quickly approach and negotiate.

However, while many V.League clubs remained cautious, the situation quickly changed. According to multiple sources, Inter Miami has entered the race and wants to bring Vozinha to MLS. The club co-owned by David Beckham is said to have begun advancing this deal to add experience to their defense. If an agreement is reached, the veteran Cape Verde goalkeeper will have the opportunity to play alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

Inter Miami's involvement virtually ends the hopes of V.League representatives. With superior financial resources, the league's appeal, and its star-studded roster, the American club has far more advantages in convincing Vozinha. As the player became famous after the World Cup, both the compensation and competition for him have significantly increased.

According to player agent Nguyen Minh Chau, the reason V.League clubs failed lies in their slow approach. He believes that Vietnamese teams were too cautious and missed the optimal time for negotiations. If they had proactively contacted him right when the 2026 World Cup began, the chances of completing the deal would have been much higher than at present.

Before the biggest football festival on the planet, Vozinha was not a well-known name. However, after just four matches, the 40-year-old goalkeeper made 18 saves, including 8 saves against Argentina, playing a major role in helping Cape Verde reach the Round of 16. His impressive performances skyrocketed his value and reputation, leaving V.League clubs with little chance to sign one of the most surprising goalkeepers of the 2026 World Cup.