Hibernians sign former Sta Lucia defender Lorenzo Fonseca

Malta champions Hibernians bolstered their squad with the signing of defender Lorenzo Fonseca, the Premier League side announced.

“Hibernians F.C. are pleased to announce that 24-year-old Cape Verde international defender Lorenzo Fonseca has signed for the club,” the Premier League club said in a statement.

“The young defender started his career with Dutch side Sparta Rotterdam, where he spent the majority of his youth career, before joining Portuguese side Academica Coimbra in July 2021. In the January transfer window, he joined BOV Premier League side Santa Lucia F.C.

“We would like to welcome Lorenzo to the club and wish him the best of luck in the upcoming season.”

The Paolites are looking to bring in reinforcements as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of their commitments in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers and a successful title defence in the Premier League.

Fonseca is seen as an important signing for the Paolites who are looking to rejuvenate their defence following the departure of Argentine defender Leandro Almeida who was not offered a new contract by the Malta champions.

Last season, Fonseca was on the books of Sta Lucia after joining the southerners during the January transfer window and turned out to be one of the best performers for the Saints, even though he could do nothing to prevent them from suffering relegation.

The Cape Verde defender made six league appearances for Sta Lucia, scoring one goal. He also was a key figure in the team’s run to the semi-finals of the FA Trophy where he made four appearances and scoring a vital winner in the quarter-final victory over Gżira United.