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| Saturday, 27 June 2009 11:44 |
Sporting tie up Mati Fernandez dealChilean headed for Alvalade Hot on the heels of Benfica’s signing of Javier Saviola, Lisbon rivals Sporting have finalised a move for Villarreal’s Chilean international Matias FernandezThe 23-year-old had been in discussions with Sporting for over a week regarding a 4.5m Euro move, and the Lions confirmed in a statement released to the press that they have concluded negotiations with both Villarreal and the player over a four-year contract. All that remains is for Fernandez to complete routine medical exams before the transfer is rubber-stamped. Fernandez, who was born in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires but raised in Chile, built a strong reputation in South America with his displays for the country’s biggest club, Colo Colo. The fleet-footed playmaker was recognised in December 2006 with the highly prestigious South American Footballer of the Year award, becoming only the third Chilean to be given the accolade. By that point, Fernandez had already agreed a move to La Liga and Villarreal, whom he joined in January 2007 for a fee of just under 9m Euros. Despite glimpses of his undoubted ability, Fernandez was deemed expendable when new boss Ernesto Valverde took over from the departed Manuel Pellegrini this summer, and Sporting made their move. Meanwhile, there could be developments in Sporting’s chase of Ecuadorian striker Felipe Caicedo today, as the Manchester City player’s representative is due in the Portuguese capital. Saif Rubie is in Lisbon on other business, but it is expected that the agent will meet with Sporting officials to further discuss a possible move for the 20-year-old. Related article: Matias Fernandez close to signing for Sporting By Sean Gillen
Comments (1)
Great for Portuguese football...
1
Saturday, 27 June 2009 13:48
Gary/Vancouver
Benifca get Saviola and now Sporting land Fernandez, and maybe Caicedo. This is good for the league's reputation and image. Mix these players up with some homegrown talent - it would be perfect!
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