Lech finalised their fourth signing of the summer. The left-back João Moutinho, who spent last season on loan at Jagiellonia Białystok, joins the team from Poznań on a permanent transfer. The Portuguese player has signed a two-year contract.
Moutinho arrived in Poznań on Tuesday evening, and the following day he passed medical tests before signing a two-year contract with Lech. The 27-year-old is a Sporting homegrown player, but made his senior debut in the United States. He spent a season at LAFC before moving to Orlando, where he made a total of 85 appearances. He then decided to return to Europe, joining Spezia Calcio. Moutinho made 11 appearances in Italy before spending the past year on loan at Jagiellonia Białystok.
"João Moutinho has signed a two-year contract with us, which will be valid until June 30th, 2027. The Portuguese player knows Ekstraklasa well, so the adaptation process should be smooth. He was one of the best players in his position in the Polish top division, so we expect him to reinforce the left-back rivalry and not only fight for a spot in the starting line-up with Michał Gurgul, but also support him with his experience. His performances last season show that he's ready to take on challenges not only in the Ekstraklasa but also in the European arena," says Lech’s Sporting Director, Tomasz Rząsa.
"With this transfer, we've completed the reinforcement of our defensive line. We can see the rivalry that has formed in each of the positions; however, we're also aware of our current injury situation and are responding accordingly - that’s why we’re in advanced talks regarding strengthening the offensive line. I believe we’ll be able to share some positive news within a few days," he adds.
Last season, the Portuguese player was a key figure for the club from Białystok, making a total of 45 appearances in all competitions. Moutinho had a very successful campaign and was nominated for the PKO BP Ekstraklasa award given to the best defender in the league. In the end, the 27-year-old ended up losing to his club teammate Mateusz Skrzypczak, who returned to Lech just a month ago. Now the two will once again share a dressing room.
"I had a very successful year at Jagiellonia and have great memories from my time in Białystok. It allowed me to get to know the country and the culture, and I liked it here a lot. So when Lech contacted me, the decision was very easy - I wanted to return to Poland. I’m very happy everything worked out, and I can’t wait to make my debut. I had the chance to play at this stadium before, and the atmosphere was incredible. The fans sang practically the entire match. It was one of the best atmospheres I’ve experienced in Poland. I’m glad we have the support of such fans," says João Moutinho.
Next matches
Saturday
26.07 godz.20:15Recommended
Subscribe