Houston Dynamo announced this Monday (12) the signing of Brazilian defender Lucas Halter, 25 years old, from Botafogo. The defender signed a contract until the 2029/30 season, with the club’s option for an extension to 2030/31. The transfer was made official after the player stood out on loan at Vitória during 2025, where he served as captain in all games played.
The negotiation involved the purchase of 70% of the economic rights for amounts ranging between US$1.5 million and US$1.75 million (equivalent to approximately R$8 million to R$9.7 million, depending on the quote). Botafogo retained 30% of the rights for future operations. Vitória received 10% of the total amount as a showcase fee, recognition of the athlete’s appreciation during the loan period.
The Texan club is looking to reinforce its defense to return to the MLS playoffs in 2026, after 12th place in Conferência Oeste the previous season. Halter arrives as an international player, subject to approval of a P-1 visa and international transfer certificate.
Lucas is ready to get to work 👏pic.twitter.com/4RiuYBIoe4
—Houston Dynamo FC (@HoustonDynamo)January 12, 2026
Official statement from the American club
Pat Onstad, president of football at Houston Dynamo, highlighted the qualities of the new reinforcement. Ele rated Halter as a proven winner and respected leader. The manager emphasized that the defender anchored defenses of champion teams in América of Sul.
Onstad added that the Brazilian demonstrated the ability to lead the defensive line. The expectation is that he will raise the technical and mental standard of the squad. The club plans to build a competitive team for titles in the North American league.
Outstanding career in Brazilian football
Lucas Halter has experience in elite national clubs. Revelado for Athletico Paranaense, debuted professionally in 2019 and was part of the Copa champion squad for Brasil that year. Depois, went on loan to Goiás in 2022 and 2023, where he recorded regularity and goals.
In 2024, he transferred to Botafogo and contributed to the achievements of Série A and Copa Libertadores. Naquele period, played 39 matches, scored two goals and provided one assist. In 2025, he played just twice for the Rio club before being loaned to Vitória.
Highlight in Vitória and general numbers
At the Bahian club, Halter assumed absolute ownership and captaincy. Ele participated in 33 games this season, with a constant presence in defense. In his total career at Brasil, he has accumulated 219 official appearances, 17 goals and three assists.
In the Brazilian Série, the defender recorded 115 appearances, eight goals and two assists. Sua height of 1.88 m and good aerial performance are valued attributes for the MLS style of play.
Next steps at Major League Soccer
Halter will present himself to the press at Houston Sports Park on Thursday (15), after the first pre-season training. Houston Dynamo begins the 2026 season at home against Chicago Fire on February 22 (local time).
The Brazilian’s arrival is part of the investment strategy in South American talent. The squad already has other players from Brasil, and the board is betting on leadership and experience to improve defensive performance.
