Żabbar St Patrick set to sign Brazilian midfielder Joao Pedro

Żabbar St Patrick are expected to sign young Brazilian midfielder Joao Pedro, the Times of Malta can confirm.

The Saints, now under the charge of Portuguese coach Joao Janeiro, are working hard to build a competitive squad for their return to the Maltese Premier League next season.

The newly-promoted side have been looking to bring in a proven goal scorer and have targeted the 20-year-old Joao Pedro as their first signing.

Pedro’s club Ibrachina FC stated on Sunday to announce that the central midfielder played his final match with the club and is heading to the Maltese Premier League with Żabbar St Patrick.

“Yesterday’s game marked the farewell of the steering wheel @joaoppedro31!,” Ibrachina FC said in a statement on Instagram.

“We thank the athlete for his dedication in wearing the shirt of our club these years, always with a lot of race and dedication, being an example to his teammates. We wish you every success in this new journey.”

Joao Pedro has been with the club for the past two years, where he made 33 appearances and scored one goal.

The 20-year-old has come through the youth ranks of Botafogo before donning the colours of Altetico Goianiense.

Joao Pedro’s arrival is set to spark Żabbar SP’s transfer campaign as the newly promoted club are hopeful of signing four Maltese players and a number of overseas players.