Rai: Lucas Moura the next piece in Paris Saint-Germain's jigsaw

09-Oct-2012 7:11:00 PM

The ex-Brazil international believes his fellow countryman has been brought to the French capital as part of Carlo Ancelotti's long-term vision for the club

Former Paris Saint-Germain playmaker Rai has defended the capture of Lucas Moura after suggestions that he was only signed as a display of financial muscle.

The Sao Paulo winger will move to the French capital in January 2013 for a reported club record fee of €45million, and Rai has responded to claims that the 20-year-old should have signed for a more established European club.

Santos coach Muricy Ramalho claimed that a move to England or Spain would have been more beneficial for the player, but 47-year-old feels that Carlo Ancelotti's team will be the perfect fit for the Olympic silver medal winner.

"They are investing a lot, but the signing of Lucas is no longer one in a series," he explained to Globo Esporte.

"They try to play on the counterattack and it fits Lucas as he has blazing speed with the ball and was bought for that purpose.

"I think he will come and play, but on the other hand cannot just be accommodated because there are many good players in the squad."

Rai also revealed that his close friend Leonardo, who is now Les Parisiens director of football, was instrumental in persuading his compatriot to join the club.