West Ham hammer out deal for new defender

 

West Ham have confirmed the capture of young centre-back Gonçalo Cardoso from Boavista. 

 

The teenager made 15 league starts for Boavista last season and has put pen to paper on a five-year deal, with the option of a further year. 

 

“West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of highly-rated Portuguese defender Gonçalo Cardoso for an undisclosed fee,” a statement read on the club’s official website. 

 

“The Hammers beat off competition from a number of top European clubs to complete the transfer of the 18-year-old centre-back from Primeira Liga club Boavista on a five-year contract with an option to extend for a further year. 

 

“Cardoso, who started 15 league games last season and was part of the Portugal side which finished runners-up at the 2019 UEFA European U19 Championship finals in July, is looking to take his game to the next level at London Stadium.” 

 

 

On his move to the London Stadium, the 18-year-old said: "I am very excited and it’s a dream come true. 

 

"I always dreamt of coming to England and now I’m here at this big, historic club, so I’m very happy. 

 

"I’m an aggressive player, a little bit different on the pitch than off it. I’m calm, and I like to have the ball and build the game from the back.  

 

"I’m here to work and to help the team reach their goals." 

 

Cardoso made more clearances per game (4.1) than any other player aged 21 and under in Liga NOS last season.