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Nestory Irankunda seals mega-money move to Sporting CP, celebrates with Michael Jackson dance

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Nestory Irankunda has completed a "mega-money" transfer to Portuguese club Sporting CP.
  • The transfer fee is reportedly around $26 million, potentially rising to $29.5 million.
  • Irankunda celebrated the move with a Michael Jackson-themed dance video.

Australian footballer Nestory Irankunda has officially sealed a lucrative transfer to Portuguese giants Sporting CP, marking another significant move for an Australian player in the European market. The deal, announced by Sporting CP on Saturday, sees the young talent move from English Championship club Watford.

It's a moment of great happiness and pride. I'm very excited.

— Nestory IrankundaIrankunda expressed his feelings about joining Sporting CP.

The transfer fee is reported to be in the region of $26 million, with potential add-ons that could push the total value to $29.5 million. This move follows closely behind teen defender Lucas Herrington's record-breaking transfer, further highlighting a strong period for Australian soccer on the international stage.

Any child or person who loves football dreams of playing in the UEFA Champions League. Having this opportunity will be fantastic and a dream come true.

— Nestory IrankundaIrankunda shared his long-held ambition to play in the Champions League.

Sporting CP, a 21-time champion from Lisbon, has shown considerable faith in the 20-year-old Irankunda by inserting a substantial $130 million release clause into his contract. They marked his arrival with an innovative welcome video, featuring Irankunda performing a Michael Jackson-inspired celebration, a nod to his signature goal celebrations.

The project seemed very good to me and, obviously, Sporting CP is a top club with a great history. I wanted to accept this challenge and I'm ready.

— Nestory IrankundaIrankunda explained his decision to join Sporting CP.

Irankunda expressed his immense happiness and pride in joining a club with Sporting CP's history and ambition, particularly its ability to offer Champions League football. He stated his desire to win titles and make history with the club. The transfer also involves a sell-on clause benefiting Bayern Munich, who originally sold Irankunda to Watford, with the German club expected to receive nearly $10 million from the deal.

Even someone who lives on the other side of the world, like me, looks at Sporting CP and understands how fantastic and passionate the fans are.

— Nestory IrankundaIrankunda commented on the reputation of Sporting CP's fanbase.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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