Bournemouth has signed Brazilian forward Rayan from Vasco da Gama for an initial fee of £24.7 million, with an additional £5.6 million in potential add-ons. The 19-year-old has agreed to a five-and-a-half-year contract with the Premier League club.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Rayan, who scored 14 goals in 34 appearances for Vasco da Gama last season, will bolster Bournemouth's attacking options following the departure of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City. The transfer includes a reported release clause worth €100 million ($120 million).
Deeper Dive & Context
Transfer Details and Competition
Bournemouth outbid several European clubs, as well as teams from Saudi Arabia and Russia, to secure Rayan's signature. The deal marks the club's joint-second largest transfer, following the £32 million acquisition of Evanilson from Porto in 2024.
Player Profile and Potential
Rayan, primarily a left-footed center-forward, can also play on either flank. He has represented Brazil's Under-20 team, scoring twice in 11 appearances. Bournemouth's president of football operations, Tiago Pinto, described the teenager as having "enormous potential" and praised his consistency and maturity for his age.
Club Context and Future Outlook
Bournemouth, currently 13th in the Premier League with 30 points, recently defeated champions Liverpool 3-2. The club faces bottom-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers next. Manager Andoni Iraola will now have a new attacking option as the team looks to solidify its position in the league.
Reactions and Statements
Rayan expressed excitement about joining Bournemouth, citing the club's "sporting project" as a key factor in his decision. Pinto echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the club's commitment to developing young talent and reinvesting in the squad.