Cruzeiro reshapes squad with player exits, explores new signings amid league schedule shift

Cruzeiro, coached by Artur Jorge, has confirmed the departure of midfielder Japa, who joins Mirassol on loan until December, and centre‑back Bruno Alves, who signed with English Championship side Norwich City. At the same time the club secured Argentine left‑back Gabriel Rojas from Racing on a contract lasting until the end of 2029, a deal worth roughly US$6 million.

The club is also monitoring LA Galaxy‑owned forward Gabriel Pec, whose estimated market value of €7 million is deemed high, but talks remain in the early stages.

Separately, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced a change to match timings, removing the 19:00 weekday slot and Sunday night games. Cruzeiro’s upcoming fixtures will reflect the new schedule: a 21:30 (BRT) match against Internacional on 22 July, a 16:00 clash with Botafogo on 26 July, and Copa do Brasil games versus Chapecoense at 18:30 on 2 August and 19:00 on 5 August.

In other Brazilian football moves, Grêmio signed 21‑year‑old defender Wallace from CRB, reportedly on a salary under R$100 000, while Vitória completed a loan for Cruzeiro midfielder Walace (31) ahead of the season’s restart.