Born in Recife, Brazil, he has previously played for Brazilian clubs sides Internacional Porto Alegre, ADAP and Angra dos Reis.
Alessandro is a lightning-quick left-back who possesses a fine technique and an attacking attitude to the position.
Merrick likened him to legendary Brazilian fullback Roberto Carlos because of his pacy runs down the flank and quality crosses.
A crowd favourite at Melbourne Victory, Alessandro was used as a left wing-back during the 2006-07 A-League season.
Negotiations with the Melbourne-based club for an extension to his contract broke down in early 2007, and the player returned to Brazil, joining Atlético Paranaense.