Video call with Varandas and Rui Borges swayed Zekri to Sporting | OneFootball

Sporting managed to secure Moncef Zekri despite PSV Eindhoven having submitted a higher offer for the 17-year-old left-back. The project presented by the Lions ultimately proved decisive in the Moroccan’s decision, with him being signed from Mechelen for a fixed €3 million plus €1 million in add-ons.

According to Record, Frederico Varandas, Bernardo Palmeiro and Rui Borges took part in a video call with Zekri last week, which proved decisive. The Sporting officials explained what they expected from the youngster, detailed the plan prepared for his development, and pointed to examples of full-backs who grew at Alvalade, including Nuno Mendes and Maxi Araújo.

The approach ultimately made the difference against the competition. Ajax had already shown interest in recent months and, more recently, PSV made inquiries and even put a figure on the table higher than the one offered by Sporting. Even so, Zekri chose the project presented by the green and whites.

Nuno Mendes, in particular, stands out as a role model for the new number 18. “I’m very proud to be here. Cristiano Ronaldo developed here, just like Nuno Mendes, who plays in my position and whom I love as a player. He became the best left-back in the world and he is my biggest inspiration,” Zekri told the Club’s official media.

The Morocco under-17 international arrives as an alternative to Maxi Araújo, but the move is mainly intended with the medium and long term in mind. Sporting want him to develop in the Uruguayan’s shadow and prepare him to take on a bigger role in the future. Zekri initially signed until 2029 because he is still underage, and he will extend the deal by a further two seasons when he turns 18 on September 20.

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