The signing of Beto and Brandon Soppy went under the radar on deadline day, but Udinese director Pierpaolo Marino insists they will be remembered as ‘historic’ players.
Centre-forward Beto was the last player to be squeezed in before the Serie A deadline, moving from Portimonense on loan with obligation to buy for €7m plus €3m in bonuses, while the Portuguese side could also retain 50 per cent of any future transfer.
Soppy is a 19-year-old right-back who cost €2m from Rennes and can also play in central defence.
“I am very happy to welcome two players of great stature who we managed to bring to Udine,” said director Marino in his press conference.
“They will certainly be a success at this club. Beto is a striker we had been following for some time and he recently hit the headlines, but we’d noticed him from his appearances in the lower leagues.
“He is a modern striker who, despite his strong physicality, is also fast. He reminds me of Duvan Zapata and we are a team that can make the most of his characteristics.
“As for Soppy, he is so young, but already has the characteristics of a complete player. His change of pace down the right can be devastating.
“This is an historic day, presenting two gems who we will remember in future.”
Beto confessed in the same press conference that his idol was Samuel Eto’o, but that over the years he also got the appreciate centre-forwards like Didier Drogba, Robert Lewandowski and Romelu Lukaku.
“I bring together pace and physicality, which are characteristics that are difficult to find together,” said the 23-year-old Portuguese talent.
“I scored many goals in Portugal, but naturally the Italian league is very different and I hope to adapt as quickly as possible. I don’t want to disappoint anyone who invested in me.”