Benfica make move for Marcel
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Article summary
SL Benfica have signed A. Académica de Coimbra's Brazilian striker Marcel on a six-month loan with the option of a permanent move in the summer.
Article body
'Great honour'
The player was unveiled at a news conference, with Benfica chairman Luís Filipe Vieira stating that the club's fifth recruit of the winter transfer window will also be the last. "It's a great honour to join Benfica, one of the biggest clubs in Europe," said Marcel. "I always wanted to come here because it's every player's dream."
Académica excellence
The 24-year-old started his career at Coritiba FC, scoring 20 goals over four seasons before heading to the Korean Republic in 2004 to play for Suwon Bluewings, where he registered eight goals in 23 games and won a national title. A Brazilian Under-23 international, Marcel arrived in Portugal ahead of the 2004/05 campaign and scored four times for Académica last term before enjoying more success this season, managing nine goals in 15 Portuguese Liga starts.
Fifth signing
Marcel is Benfica's fifth January signing, following the additions of goalkeeper Moretto, Marco Ferreira, Manduca and Laurent Robert. The Portuguese champions will meet holders Liverpool FC in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League on 21 February and 8 March.