Bastos linked with Fortaleza move as Angola defender joins Serie B club

Angola centre-back Bastos is the subject of a reported move to Fortaleza, the Brazilian club where he is currently listed, with the transfer rumour dated 16 September 2026.

The 35-year-old defender is recorded as having left Botafogo to join Fortaleza on a free transfer, although the move remains reported rather than confirmed. Fortaleza compete in Brazil’s Serie B, and Bastos’ market value is listed at €600,000.

Bastos made six appearances in Brazil’s Serie A during 2026, playing 521 minutes, and also featured in the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil. He has not scored or provided an assist in those competitions and has received one yellow card in the league.

His arrival would follow a two-year spell with Botafogo, whom he joined from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in August 2023. During his time at Botafogo, Bastos won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian championship in 2024.

The Luanda-born defender previously played in Italy for Lazio, winning the Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup, and in Russia for Rostov, where he lifted the Russian Cup. He began his senior career with Petro Luanda.

Bastos is currently listed with Fortaleza, but the reported move has not been accompanied by a confirmed contract expiry date.