Sheriff add fifth Brazilian to squad

Moldovan giants FC Sheriff have added a fifth Brazilian to their squad in the shape of striker Juninho Potiguar from Icasa in Brazil.

After failing to achieve promotion to the top flight last season, Juninho was allowed to leave Icasa on a free transfer, signing a three-year contract with the European club. The forward will now be looking to help his new club achieve a tenth straight Divizia Națională title, joining compatriots Enrique Luvannor, Ricardinho, Ernandes and Jhonatan at Sheriff.

The 23-year old caught the eye of FC Sheriff scouts by scoring 20 goals for Icasa in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série B, earning himself a move to Europe with the Moldovan side.

The player’s agent admitted his client had had plenty of interest from clubs in Brazil, but Juninho was keen to test himself in Europe with a club as big as FC Sheriff, who finished third in their Europa League group earlier this season, despite many Betfair punters backing the team to finish bottom of Group K.

"He received offers from several clubs in Serie A, here in Brazil. But it was a great opportunity to enter Europe with a club that has a structure as large as FC Sheriff. Now he is in the 'door' of Europe. I sure it will be good for the development of football and his career,” said Juninho’s agent, Lupercio.

After their brave European adventure came to an end at the group stage, the club’s sole focus will be on continuing their dominance of Moldovan football. Currently overwhelming favourites with Betfair to collect a tenth straight league title, Sheriff will also be looking to add both domestic cups to their huge collection of trophies.