Thabo Cele has joined Portuguese giants Benfica.
The 20-year-old put pen to paper on what Phaaakathi understands to be a five-year deal with the Portuguese giants.
Benfica, together with fellow heavyweights FC Porto were reportedly after the services of the KwaMashu-born midfielder since December last year.
The Lisbon-based side has however pipped oppositions in luring him from second tier side Real Sporte Club, which he joined in August last year after flourishing in the annual Durban Under-20 tournament.
The deal will however see Cele remain with is current club until the end of the season as they are fighting to get promoted to the top flight. He will then join his new club in July for the new season.
“This is finally happening, it is a indeed a great step for me and my career. I am out of words … God is great,” an excited Cele told Phakaaathi.
Cele has so far played 21 games in all competition his Portuguese Champion side, one which he played in a loss against his new club in the Portuguese Cup tie.
The 20-year-old was unfortunate to miss out on the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations tournament which is underway in Zambia, as his then side did not release him.
It is now, however, clear that he was refused to leave because his move was on the cards.
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