Vasco bid for attacking midfielder, eyeing 2026 | OneFootball

Even with their full focus on the Copa do Brasil final, Vasco da Gama is already making moves behind the scenes with an eye on next season. According to journalist Pipe Sierra, the Rio de Janeiro club has made a loan offer with a purchase option for Colombian attacking midfielder Johan Rojas, who belongs to Monterrey, Mexico.

At 23 years old, Rojas recently returned to Monterrey after a loan spell at Necaxa. In addition to Cruz-Maltino, Atlético Nacional from Colombia is also showing interest in signing the player. The values of a possible purchase have not been disclosed, but the midfielder is valued at 3.5 million euros, about R$ 23 million.

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Johan Rojas celebrates a goal for Monterrey. (Photo by Azael Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Standout in Colombia and inconsistent spell in Mexico

Revealed by La Equidad in Colombia, Johan Rojas played four seasons at the club and caught the attention of the Mexican market. In 2024, he had the best moment of his career, with nine direct goal involvements in 23 matches — two goals scored and seven assists.

In the previous season, his performance was also positive: in 29 games, the midfielder found the net five times and contributed three assists, totaling eight goal involvements. In Mexican football, despite showing good moments, the player struggled with the team's inconsistency. According to Sofascore data, Rojas had an average rating of 7.07, with one goal in 15 matches and no assists.

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Photo: Reproduction.

Vasco is in the Copa do Brasil final

On the field, Vasco is experiencing a special moment. After an exciting qualification at Maracanã, the Gigante da Colina secured a spot in the Copa do Brasil final after 14 years, overcoming Fluminense on penalties.

The team led by Fernando Diniz is now preparing for the big final against a team from São Paulo. The first leg of the final takes place next Wednesday (17th), at 9:30 pm (Brasília time), against Corinthians, at Neo Química Arena.

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