Vinicius Junior`s burgeoning football ownership venture, Portuguese club FC Alverca, has completed a notable transfer, securing forward Leo Chu from Major League Soccer side FC Dallas. This marks the first instance of a player moving from MLS to a club under the direct ownership influence of the Real Madrid superstar.
FC Alverca`s ascent through the Portuguese football pyramid has been remarkably swift. Since the consortium led by Vinicius Junior acquired nearly 80 percent ownership in February 2025 for a reported €10 million, the club has achieved back-to-back promotions. This rapid rise culminates in a spot in Portugal`s top flight, Liga Portugal, for the upcoming season.
Vinicius Junior`s decision to enter club ownership while still actively playing at the pinnacle of the sport is both unconventional and indicative of his long-term ambitions. It positions him not merely as a global icon on the pitch, but potentially as a significant powerbroker in football administration off it. The acquisition and subsequent rapid success of Alverca appear to be the initial foundation for this strategic expansion beyond his playing career.
Leo Chu, the subject of this cross-Atlantic transfer, arrived at FC Dallas earlier this year as part of a larger trade package that notably sent USMNT star Jesus Ferreira to Seattle Sounders. Despite the potential implied by his inclusion in such a high-profile domestic exchange, Chu`s time in Texas was brief and offered limited opportunities on the pitch. He featured in only four competitive matches for Dallas, registering a single goal during his short tenure.
The move to FC Alverca offers Chu a significant fresh start and a chance to reignite his career. As Alverca prepares for its maiden season back in the demanding environment of Liga Portugal, the Brazilian winger will be looking to secure consistent playing time and rebuild his momentum after a quiet spell in MLS. From Alverca`s perspective, securing a player from the US top flight – even one with limited recent minutes – suggests a targeted approach to recruitment as they face the challenges of establishing themselves in Portugal`s premier division. It seems Vinicius Jr.`s club isn`t afraid to look across the pond for talent, even if that talent is, shall we say, underutilized at its previous stop.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood