Official: Cardoso signs

West Ham have officially announced the signing of Portuguese defender Gonçalo Cardoso for €3m with €2m of add-ons depending on Premier League starts.

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.

“I am very excited and it’s a dream come true,” said the teenager, who will wear the No20 shirt.  

“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.”