Transfer Market: Santa Clara Goalkeeper Set to Reinforce FC Porto

João Afonso, Santa Clara's promising young goalkeeper, is set to join FC Porto.

The young shot-stopper, who made his senior debut for the Azorean side in the final stretch of the season—featuring in the last two league matches, including one at the Estádio do Dragão—has been the subject of negotiations between the two clubs. FC Porto will pay a fixed €2 million for 80% of the player's economic rights, A BOLA has confirmed.

However, the total value of the deal could rise to €4 million at a later stage, as a variable clause has been included in the agreement.

João Afonso represents a future investment for FC Porto's SAD, who had previously seen an initial offer rejected. Subsequently, discussions between the two clubs progressed smoothly, and only a major turnaround would prevent João Afonso from heading to the Dragão. He is expected to sign a five-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2031.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper is anticipated to begin his journey at FC Porto with the B team, while regularly integrating into first-team training sessions, especially given the investment made. A native of the Azores, he completed his entire youth development in the archipelago and is now on the cusp of a new challenge. He was recently called up to represent Portugal (U20) in the Maurice Revello Tournament.