Socceroos defender Alessandro Circati completes high-profile move from Parma to Benfica

Socceroos star Alessandro Circati says it’s a “huge honour” and a “privilege” to join Portuguese giants Benfica.

The 22-year-old central defender’s move to Portugal from Italian top-flight club Parma has been confirmed by Benfica, who have signed Circati until 2031 in a deal reportedly worth $32 million.

“It’s a reward that I’ve got over the last few years of lots of hard work, and I can’t wait to play for Benfica.” Circati told BTV .

“It’s a huge honour. It’s a privilege. I‘m over the moon. I couldn’t be happier.”

Circati’s move comes just days after his Socceroos teammate Nestory Irankunda signed with Benfica’s arch-rivals Sporting CP.

“I’m sure it’s going to take a bit of time (to adjust),” said the Italy-born, Perth-raised centre-back, who made 96 appearances for Parma, including 37 in Serie A.

“I’ll try to make it as fast as possible, with the help of my teammates, and with the help of the staff, but I’m sure I’ll fit in just fine I’m very excited to play.

“I’m very adaptable. I can play as a centre-back in a back four or a back three.

“I’m aggressive, I like to play on the front foot, and try to keep the ball and dictate the play when we have most of the ball.

Meanwhile, another of Circati’s Socceroos teammates, winger Nishan Velupillay, has been sold for an undisclosed fee by Melbourne Victory to German third division club Ingolstadt.

“I’m really looking forward to the new challenge in Germany,” said Velupillay, who made 141 senior appearances in all competitions across five years for Victory and scored 25 goals for the Melbourne club.

“After my years at Melbourne Victory, the time was right for me to take the next step.

“I want to thank everyone connected with Melbourne Victory for making me the person that I am today.”

Originally published as Socceroos defender Alessandro Circati completes high-profile move from Parma to Benfica