Pacos Ferreira 23 year old Nigerian defender has emerged as the most sought after young defender in Portugal this season after a string of impressive performances for the second division side, Owngoalnigeria.com reports.
On loan from top division side Tondela, Junior has so far played in all but four of Pacos Ferreira league games as they close in on promotion to the top division in Portugal base on their current standing as leaders. Eight points clear of closest challengers Famalicao.
Once viewed by the hierarchy of Porto B as a future defender for the main team, he was surprisingly released by the club in 2015 after a fairly successful time on loan at Desportivo Aves the previous season.
He dropped a level to the third division and played a pivotal role in helping Sanjoanense gain promotion to the second division. Top division side Tondela immediately snapped him up but just when he was beginning to find his feet in the team, he suffered a ligament damage which ruled him out for the rest of the season.
In a bid to get game time, he joined relegated Pacos Ferreira and so far it has not just been about his ability to stop attackers from scoring, he has also weigh in with his own fair share of goals and assist this season from his central defence role.
The left footed centre back has scored two goals with a further three assists to his name this season in 17 league games . His form has already attracted interest from clubs in Spain, Germany and Belgium but he is aiming for a shot at the top flight in Portugal before contemplating on a move.
Pacos also have the option of signing him on a two year deal after his loan spell and with his performance so far that looks more likely to happen in the summer than a move away. Although a bid close to the valuation of the over six feet tall defender will no doubt force them into selling.
