[Fillipo Simone]

Officials: Brazilian goalie suspected in murder of woman

Police in Rio de Janeiro are searching for a high-profile soccer player accused of orchestrating the kidnapping and murder of a woman believed to have been a former lover, officials said Wednesday.

A judge in Rio de Janeiro issued an order Wednesday for the arrest of Flamengo goalkeeper Bruno Fernandes Souza and his friend, Luiz Henrique Ferreira Romao.

Both are considered suspects in the disappearance and murder of Eliza Samudio, according to court documents. Samudio was last seen with Souza as they headed for his country home in the neighboring state of Minas Gerais in June. Her body has not been found, authorities said.

TV Record, CNN's affiliate in Brazil, and CNN have confirmed that seven arrest orders have been issued in Minas Gerais for other suspects. Five people have been arrested, including Dayane Souza, the goalie's wife.

A 17-year-old boy in Minas Gerais has allegedly confessed to taking part in the crime, Minas Gerais police chief Edson Moreira said in a news conference. But Moreira said the young man's confession is under question, and said Souza is now considered a fugitive.

Flamengo soccer officials told CNN that Souza has been suspended until the allegations and legal issues are resolved.

Souza's attorney, Michel Assef Filho, was not available for comment.

In addition Gazzetta dello Sport writes Milan had already a pre-contract signed with Bruno.

[MizNelson]

Well, it's safe to say that that's been terminated.

[arivanjj]

how distrubing.