Centre-back signs for Benfica: a dream to play in Portugal | OneFootball

The young Brazilian centre-back Davi Andrade Lima, just 17 years old, is confirmed at Benfica in a deal worth around one million euros, after catching the eye while playing for the Itaquaquecetuba Athletico Clube under-20s.

The footballer has already completed his medical examinations and signed an initial agreement with the Eagles, before returning to Brazil. In statements to 'TV Diário', the youngster admitted he did not expect an opportunity of this magnitude so early in his career.

"Everyone dreams of being a professional player. I didn’t imagine it would happen so soon. It’s been a dream since childhood, since I started out. Everyone who goes into football dreams of playing in Europe, and mine is coming true earlier than I thought".

Although the move is still some way off, he showed himself to be motivated for what lies ahead: "I’m very excited. I want to play well this year that I’ll be staying here. It’s a dream to play in Portugal", after standing out in the Copa São Paulo de Juniores, where he recorded two assists.

Although he has already been to Lisbon to complete his medical examinations and formalise the pre-contract with the Eagles, Davi Andrade Lima will only officially join Benfica in July 2027, when he turns 18, as required by international regulations.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.