Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has opened up on the challenges his side faced in sealing a deal for talented youngster Luis 'Hemir' Semedo after the forward's arrival was confirmed on Sunday morning.
The 19-year-old's signing was sealed for what is believed to be a seven-figured fee, with Hemir putting pen to paper on a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light, but only after the Black Cats had to see off competition for the Portuguese youth international before convincing the player himself to leave Benfica after an 11-year association with the club.
“Hemir is very talented young player who’s motivated to develop and progress," Speakman said. "It was not an easy decision for him to leave a club where he has been since eight years of age, and equally it was not an easy acquisition for us considering the level of interest in him.
"He will complement our existing options in the final third and he possesses some great physical and technical attributes, so we are really happy he’s chosen to continue his career with SAFC.”
READ MORE: Sunderland confirm signing of striker Hemir from Benfica
Hemir becomes the latest prospect to join up with Tony Mowbray's young side, following on from the signing of fellow teenager Jobe Bellingham last week. Described as 'towering' by club in their statement confirming his signing, Hemir will join up with the first team when they return to training a week today.
The player himself cannot wait to get started: “This is a big move for me and I am very excited to be here," he said. "sunderland-afc>Sunderland AFC have a lot of young players playing an important part in the team and I think this will be really good for my personal development. I’m excited to meet my new team mates, see the stadium and experience the fans.”
