30 May 2007, by Marco Pereira

Porto snap up Academica’s Lino

Ricardo Costa and Ibson heading for the exit door

FC Porto have made their first signing for next season by snapping up Academica left-back Lino on a two-year deal with an option for a third.

The 29-year-old only arrived in Portugal last season but his impressive displays have paved the way to a dream move to the national champions.

Despite playing in the back four, Lino scored five goals this season and he can also play as a left winger. The Dragons beat off competition from Belenenses and German club Hansa Rostock for the Brazilian’s signature.

Meanwhile, rumoured to be leaving Porto are Ricardo Costa and Ibson. Both players were seldom used this past season with Costa on the verge of moving to Marseille back in January, only for the deal to fall through at the 11th hour.

It has been reported that Panathinaikos are keen on taking both players to Greece. The moves might be made possible as the Greek club have recently appointed Portuguese Jose Peseiro as their new head coach.

The former Sporting tactician has been given the green light to make changes and has set his sights on the two Porto players in an attempt to win the championship next season.

However, it is believed that Ibson does not favour a move to Greece, and would rather be transferred to Spain or Germany.