Despite being offered a new contract by Liverpool, 23-year-old Joao Carlos Teixeira has today completed a move to FC Porto. The Portuguese midfielder arrived in England four years ago from Sporting CP in a deal worth around £800k after impressing Liverpool’s scouts in a youth tournament.
However, between Teixiera’s impressive showing in the NextGen Series and his transfer to Liverpool, the youngster suffered a serious back injury that left Sporting with doubts as to whether Teixeira—who had been dubbed the next Deco in Portugal—would ever fulfil his promise. That, in part, led to their willingness to sell.
It also meant Liverpool were always making something of a gamble on the player. At times, including during an impressive loan spell with Brighton & Hove Albion, it looked a gamble that might pay off. However, with the player still not ready for regular first team action and his contract winding down, a move seemed likely.
Teixeira has looked a promising player in flashes, but not a player who would be a first team lock next season at Liverpool. And, now 23 years old and having spent four years on the books at Liverpool, it was clear he needed to find a home where he could start regularly rather than being loaned for yet another season.
“I am from the north, and so to be able to wear the blue and white has always been a dream for me,” said Teixeira following news that he had signed a four-year deal with FC Port. “Now I can work at my club in my region and my country. I had other offers but do not want anything other than to wear the blue and white.”
In total, Teixeira made eight appearances for Liverpool in his four years in England, scoring one goal—the third in a 3-0 victory over Exeter City in the FA Cup last season. While with Brighton, he made 35 appearances and scored five goals. Liverpool will be entitled to around £250k in compensation for the player.