Porto snap up Brazilian duo
Tuesday, January 6, 2004
Article summary
FC Porto have signed Maciel and Carlos Alberto from UD Leiria and Fluminense FC respectively.
Article body
Duo go on loan
The 25-year-old Maciel joins on a four-and-a-half year contract from UD Leiria, where he worked with the Porto coach José Mourinho. As part of the deal Hugo Almeida and Tiago will go to Leiria on loan until the end of the season at least.
'Here to give my best'
Maciel, who scored 22 goals in his first two seasons with Leiria, has hit the net four times this season but will not be eligible to represent his new club in the UEFA Champions League this season after appearing for his former club in the UEFA Cup. "I am very happy," said the striker. "I am here to give my best to help Porto."
Alberto arrival
Meanwhile, midfield player Carlos Alberto arrives from Fluminense FC in his homeland on a five-and-a-half year contract. The 19-year-old scored 12 goals last season and has been compared to Porto playmaker Deco. "It's a big step for me," he said. "Of course I am glad to be compared with Deco, but I will have to start from zero." Porto coach Mourinho said: "I think with these two players the squad is close [to completion]."
