• Premier League

Porto boss planning on Hulk and Moutinho staying

ESPN staff
July 26, 2012
Hulk remains a key part of Porto's plans for the new season © PA Photos
Enlarge

Vitor Pereira says Premier League transfer targets Hulk and Joao Moutinho are very much part of his Porto plans for the new season despite interest from Premier League clubs.

The coach says he is encouraged by the stance of president Pinto da Costa, who has stressed that he is determined to see both players remain at the club.

Brazil forward Hulk has been linked with a move to Chelsea but is reported to have an £85 million release clause in his contract, while Portugal international Moutinho is thought to be a target for his compatriot Andre Villas-Boas at Spurs.

Pereira said: "Hulk and Joao Moutinho are both in my plans for next season. They are our players and are very important to the structure of this team.

"I am not preoccupied by the possibility of big offers from England because I know the clear position of Porto's president on this subject."

Speaking last month, Da Costa denied Porto had received any offers for Hulk, saying: "I can't say anything about Hulk - there is nothing to say. At this point, there have not been any offers made to FC Porto, or anyone related to FC Porto, with regard to Hulk.

"That is the truth, despite what the papers say about Chelsea and PSG. Those stories are simply rumours. If you believe what they say, Hulk has already left us."

Hulk, who is under contract at Porto until 2014, said earlier this summer that he would be "happy" to make the move to Stamford Bridge.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices