Benfica today confirmed the signing of former Ceará and Madureira striker Derley.
The 26-year-old spent last season at Portuguese side Marítimo and his 18 goals in 30 appearances caught the eye of the Portuguese giants, for whom he has now completed his medical and signed a contract.
“I’m really happy. It’s the first chance I’ve had to play at a big European club. It’ll be really gratifying to play for Benfica and I hope to match their expectations of me by scoring goals,” said the player whose first goal for Marítimo came on his debut against Benfica.
“All new players want to make their mark. If I have the opportunity to score in the first game then I will take it, because it would be something really special. I did it at Marítimo and if it was the same here it would give me confidence.
“I’ve never played at a big club. I have dreams, mainly to play in the Champions League which is this season’s objective. With the will that I have anything is possible. For me, everything is where I need it to have another great season. It’s not going to be easy because this group is full of great players but I’ll fight for my place and hope to be ready when I get my chance. Now it’s all about working,” completed Derley.
