Globo Esporte Futebol reports that Chico da Costa was previously close to joining Sport in a deal involving Zé Lucas, but he refused to move to the Pernambucan club as he would have been used as a "bargaining chip". Criciúma and Remo were also interested in signing him, but they did not progress with the negotiations.
Chico da Costa has played for several clubs, including Cerro Porteño, Bolívar, and Atlético Nacional. In 2026, his last game was on April 25 for Cruzeiro against Remo, where he played 16 minutes. In his most recent game, a 1-1 draw between Cruzeiro and Fluminense on May 31, he played only one minute.
This signing will be the sixth reinforcement for Fortaleza in this transfer window, following Neris, Kaio Henrique, Pedro Henrique, Nathan Fogaça, and Jailson. Fortaleza will face Ceará in their next match on Sunday, June 13, at the Arena Castelão.