File photo of Carlos Alberto Torres holding the trophy during the FIFA World Cup "Trophy Tour" at Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro April 22, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

In a statement on their website, eight-time Brazilian league champions Santos announced three days of mourning.

"He played 445 matches and scored 40 goals from 1965-1975, and is considered the best right-back in the history of Praiano Alvinegro," the statement said.

On Twitter, Cosmos said they were "deeply saddened" by the loss of "a legendary player and wonderful person."

"He'll always remain part of the Cosmos family," the US club added.

The president of Fluminense, Peter Siemsen, said: "We are very sad about the loss of our great captain Carlos Alberto Torres - one of the best in the history of world football. Formed in the Fluminense youth teams, the captain had tricolor blood. He took part in one of the great moments in the history of the club."

Flamengo described the news as an "irreparable loss for fans, friends and family."