GB passes medical, set to join Fortaleza on loan from Vasco | OneFootball

The forward GB, who emerged from the youth ranks of Vasco da Gama, is already in Fortaleza and has passed all medical examinations. The player now awaits only bureaucratic procedures to formalize a contract with Fortaleza Esporte Clube until the end of the season, with an option to purchase at the end of the term.

The information was initially released by the profile “Atenção, Vascaínos!” and confirmed by ge. Leão do Pici will be GB's first experience with another Brazilian football club.

The agreement provides for a loan until December 2026, with a fixed value clause for permanent acquisition if the athlete meets the goals set by the Ceará club.

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Photo: Jorge Rodrigues/AGIF

Who is GB? See the forward's numbers and characteristics

Gabriel Souza, known as GB, is 21 years old, 1.90m tall, and plays as a center forward, with his right foot as dominant. Promoted to the professional team after good performances in the Brasileirão Sub-20, the forward has 27 appearances for Vasco's main team, with three goals scored — against Vitória and Red Bull Bragantino (twice).

Despite his physical potential and presence in the area, the young player has not managed to establish himself as an absolute starter. In Fortaleza's current squad, he arrives to compete for a position with Vitinho, Bareiro, and Kayke.

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Vasco da Gama vs. Bahia for the 3rd round of the Brazilian Championship held at São Januário Stadium on February 11, 2026. Photos: Matheus Lima/Vasco.

Farewell atmosphere and controversy at São Januário

Vasco's 1-0 defeat to Bahia last Wednesday (11) marked what many considered a farewell atmosphere for GB at São Januário. Coach Fernando Diniz chose to field the forward in the second half, a decision that generated a strong reaction in the stands.

Part of the fans questioned the player's use amid advanced negotiations for his departure. During the match, the young player accumulated technical errors, which intensified the criticism.

After the game, Diniz commented on the situation:

— There is interest from Fortaleza, but nothing was settled until the game. He was a player the game called for participation. The game offered itself for him to enter, as it did against Botafogo and Vitória last year. We took advantage of him being here and put him in to play. I don't know the information (if he will leave).

With the move to Fortaleza underway, GB seeks to gain more playing time and continuity to regain confidence and development. Meanwhile, Vasco continues to reshape its offensive sector after significant changes in the squad for 2026.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.