FC Porto Transfer News: Portuguese Giants to Seal Deal for Brazilian Starlet

FC Porto are on the verge of bringing in another promising South American talent, this time in the form of Brazilian wing-back Alex Sandro of Santos.

Sandro, who played an integral part in Santos' successful Copa Libertadores campaign and picked up rave reviews along the way, was also attracting interest from Porto's domestic rivals, Benfica.

However, it appears the young star has opted for the current Portuguese champions and recent Europa-League winners.

It is reported that Sandro cost a total of €9.5 million and, though both Portuguese giants had met Santos's valuation, Porto offered better personal terms.

"With Benfica, we did not get what we think we should be getting and what Alex Sandro should be getting. Porto came in with an offer and we agreed with them immediately," said the player's agent, Pablo Miranda, according to goal.com.

Sandro, mainly a left wing-back, began his career impressively with the Atletico Paranaense youth team before being called up to the senior side for 17 games and a solitary goal.

He was then sold to current club Santos, where he has totaled 28 appearances and one goal. 

Alex Sandro has also played for the Brazilian U-20 squad and was part of the side that claimed the 2011 South America Youth Championship earlier this year. He is known for his attacking prowess and solid defensive capabilities.

His arrival could pave the way for the possible departure of current left-back Alvaro Pereira, whose stock may have risen considerably given his solid performances at this year's Copa America.

Pereira, who arrived from CFR Cluj in 2009 for €4.5 million, had two impressive seasons at the Dragão, and the club are now looking to cash in on the Uruguay international for a fee of at least €20 million.  

Although nothing is official as of yet, Porto look to be wrapping up a deal for Sandro, with the player's agent saying, "They gave us the go-ahead; we have agreed to discuss the salary now. It only remains to formalize the deal itself now."

It remains unseen if Alex Sandro has what it takes to be successful in Europe, but he will be given the opportunity to develop with Porto, a club renowned for its nurturing of young talent.