Silva service for Sporting
Wednesday, July 9, 2003
Article summary
Sporting Clube de Portugal have agreed a with Boavista FC striker Elpídio Silva.
Article body
Set on Lisbon
The 27-year-old Brazilian has agreed a three-year deal to play in the new Alvalade XXI for the next three years. Several other clubs had expressed interest in acquiring his services, but the Brazilian was set on a move to Lisbon. "I recognise that I had other proposals, but I gave priority to Sporting," he said. "It's a great club."
Championship ambition
Looking ahead to Sporting's domestic challenge and their UEFA Cup campaign, Silva added: "I can only promise much work. Fernando Santos is a champion coach, I hope all together, we can achieve the title."
Terms undisclosed
The transfer fee has not been revealed but, as part of the deal, Sporting will play in a tournament marking Boavista's centenary celebrations in August and allow a player to move in the opposite direction for the 2004/05 season.
Instant impression
Silva first came to Portugal in 1998, joining SC Braga after one year playing in Japan for Kashiwa Reysol. A series of impressive performances for Braga over two seasons led to the transfer to Boavista for the 2000/01 campaign. He made an immediate impact, scoring eleven goals as Boavista won their first 1. Divisão title.
