Portuguese centre-back Rafael Fernandes signs for Lille

LOSC Lille have completed the signing of Portugal U20 international Rafael Fernandes (21) from Portuguese Primeira Liga outfit Arouca. 

LOSC are delighted to announce today the signing of Portuguese Under-21 international, 21-year-old central defender Rafael Fernandes, from Arouca.

He’s signed with the Mastiffs until 2028.

Welcome to LOSC, Rafael 💪 pic.twitter.com/H04RV5teEZ

— LOSC (@LOSC_EN) January 31, 2024

According to L’Équipe, the highly-rated defender cost Lille just north of 2M€ and will sign a contact keeping him with Les Dogues until 2028. Lille’s official statement announcing the arrival of the youngster describes him as “A physical player, effective in duels and in the aerial game as well as being a quick player blessed with acceleration”.

Fernandes has made 14 appearances across all competitions for Arouca this season, who he joined in the summer of 2022 after progressing through the youth ranks at Sporting Lisbon.

L’Équipe further elaborates on Lille’s transfer plans in the final hours of the window, with a striker now being a priority. Paulo Fonseca’s side currently sit 5th in Ligue 1, two points behind AS Monaco and three behind third-placed Stade Brestois, and will play host to relegation contenders Clermont Foot on Sunday afternoon. 

GFFN | Jack McArdle