4 June 2007, by Marco Pereira

FC Porto snap up Brazilian hard man

Fernando brought into squad of Portuguese champions

FC Porto have quietly dipped into the transfer market and picked up Brazil U-20 midfielder, Fernando, from Vila Nova de Goias.

The 19-year-old will put pen to paper on a five-year deal and will cost the club 720 000 euros.

The Brazil youth player, whose full name is Fernando Francisco Reges, comes highly recommended after having been watched throughout the U-20 South American Championships.

However, the 1.82 metre tall and 70 kg centre-back comes with some negative baggage as he assaulted a referee during that tournament and was subsequently handed a one-year suspension from international play.