Shakhtar win race to lure Taison from Metalist

FC Shakhtar Donetsk have bolstered their attacking options ahead of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 with the acquisition of Taison from FC Metalist Kharkiv.

Shakhtar triggered the €15m buyout clause in Taison's contract, tying the Brazilian forward to a five-year deal in Donetsk. "The Shakhtar and Metalist presidents negotiated his move from Kharkiv to Donetsk on Thursday," read a Shakhtar press release. "An initial €11.3m offer was turned down by Metalist, so Donetsk decided to use the buyout clause."

Taison leaves Metalist having scored 13 goals in 57 Premier League games since his arrival from SC Internacional in 2010. "I'm extremely happy to join such a great club," said the 24-year-old. "I faced Shakhtar numerous times so I know all about this club. I also know Brazilians who are playing here. I'm looking forward to helping this team win trophies. I was happy in Metalist and I want to thank the players, the coaches and the staff."

Shakhtar finished second in UEFA Champions League Group E and will play Borussia Dortmund in the round of 16. The first leg takes place in Donetsk on 13 February, with the return in Germany on 5 March.