"I accepted the offer thanks to conversations I had with people within the club's structure. The project seemed very good to me and, obviously, Sporting CP is a top club with a great history. I wanted to accept this challenge and I'm ready," he said in a club statement.

"Even someone who lives on the other side of the world, like me, looks at Sporting CP and understands how fantastic and passionate the fans are. That's why, and also because of the club's history, I get goosebumps thinking that I'm wanted by a club like this. When they told me about Sporting CP, it was Sporting CP all the way.

"I came here to win titles and to play for great fans. I want to make history and there's no better place to do it than Sporting CP. I'm very happy to be here and I hope to win trophies this season.

"It's a moment of great happiness and pride. I'm very excited. Any child or person who loves football dreams of playing in the UEFA Champions League. Having this opportunity will be fantastic and a dream come true.”

Mukhtar Ali will don the colours of 14-time Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad Club after completing his move from Al Ettifaq.

The 28-year-old spent last season with Al Ettifaq and made 32 appearances and scored one goal under the guidance of Saad Al Shehri.

The defensive midfielder had started his career at youth level with Chelsea in England before playing for Vitesse in the Netherlands prior to his switch to Saudi Arabia.