By Tom Kundert
By Tom Kundert
July 3, 2012
Moroccan international signs 5-year contract at Alvalade.
Sporting’s first summer signing, Zakaria Labyad, was officially unveiled at Alvalade yesterday. The Moroccan international signed a five-year contract for the Lisbon club, with a buyout clause set at a staggering 50 million euros.
The former PSV Eindhoven player was presented to the press on the pitch. Asked if he knew any Portuguese words, Labyad replied: “Just a few words: amigo, obrigado, golaço.” What else does he need?
Labyad has been a long-term target for Sporting, who reportedly staved off an attempt by city rivals Benfica to snap up the teenager earlier this year. At the time Labyad said he opted for Sporting because of the club’s reputation at bringing young players through.
He said he can play in any position across the middle of the pitch but prefers to be an attacking midfielder, and lacks no ambition. “I want to be playing Champions League football next season.”
Despite only turning nineteen in March, the Dutch born Labyad played 45 times for PSV’s first team, scoring 8 goals.
Source: portugoal.net