1899 snap up Brazilian youngster Firmino

1899 Hoffenheim have enlisted the services of a young Brazilian talent by the name of Roberto Firmino as they make their first move of the ahead of the winter transfer window. Following a successful medical evaluation with the club, the 19-year old has put pen to paper on a 4-and-a-half year contract lasting until 20.06.2015.

Firmino makes the switch from Brazilian second division side Figueirense Futebol Clube and will join Ralf Rangnick and the team in training in the build-up to the second half of the Bundesliga season. "We're incredibly happy we had the chance to bolster the strength of our squad with an up and coming Brazilian talent who was attracting a lot of attention from other major clubs all over the world. We'll obviously allow him the time necessary for him to get used to his new surroundings. His qualities as an attacking midfielder are demonstrated by him scoring 8 goals in 36 matches and was recognized by the league as he was named the best player in the Brazilian second division last season", stated an excited manager, Ernst Tanner.

Firmino will be given the number 22 shirt to wear as a Hoffenheim player and the details of the transfer are as yet undisclosed.