Crystal Palace have moved quickly to strengthen a key area behind the scenes. A familiar face from the Eagle Football network is now set to arrive.
According to reports in Brazil, former Botafogo director Alessandro Brito has agreed to join Crystal Palace as the club’s new head scout. The move was first reported by ESPN Brasil journalist Felipe Silva. It was later reinforced by Venê Casagrande.
Brito left Botafogo last week after more than four years with the Brazilian club. He initially joined in 2022. During one of the most successful periods in Botafogo’s recent history, he became one of the key figures in the recruitment department.
His departure had already sparked speculation about a move to the Premier League. Now, reports in Brazil indicate Crystal Palace have won the race. They are expected to formally integrate him into their scouting structure in the coming days.
Eagle Football connection
The move is an interesting one given the existing relationship between Crystal Palace and Botafogo through the Eagle Football Holdings network.
While Palace’s involvement with Eagle has evolved over recent years, there remains a strong familiarity between the clubs. Even though John Textor is not a part of that picture anymore, Brito’s experience of operating within that structure should help smooth his transition into English football.
Alessandro Brito built a strong reputation in South America for talent identification and squad construction. During his time at Botafogo, he played a major role in identifying and recruiting players such as Igor Jesus, John Victor and Jair Cunha. All of these players have since moved to Nottingham Forest.
He was also involved in the arrival of World Cup winner Thiago Almada and midfielder Danilo Santos. The latter has attracted interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.
Those successes came during one of the most productive recruitment periods in Botafogo’s recent history. The club won both the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian Championship in 2024, achievements that significantly raised the profile of everyone involved in the sporting department.
What it could mean for Palace
Crystal Palace have increasingly expanded their recruitment reach beyond traditional European markets. The club have found success with players sourced from different regions. They have continued to invest heavily in scouting.
Bringing Brito to Selhurst Park could strengthen Palace’s links to the Brazilian and wider South American markets. His network and knowledge of emerging talent may prove valuable as the club looks to maintain a competitive edge in recruitment.
For now, the reports from Brazil suggest the deal is done. Brito’s set to take over as head scout and begin the next stage of his career in the Premier League.
