OFFICIAL: PAOK Sign Lino From Porto

PAOK have officially announced the signing of Brazilian left-back Dorvalino Alves Maciel or ‘Lino’ from Portuguese giants Porto.

The 31 year-old defender joins the Greek club on a one-and-a-half year deal, after he struggled to find first team football during a two-year stay at the Estadio do Dragao.

A statement on PAOK’s website confirmed the move, which had been widely reported within Greece in recent days.

The former Sao Paulo player spoke for the first time to gathered press after signing with his new club and said he looked forward to the prospect of first team football.

“My first impressions are extremely good,” Lino said. “The people at PAOK have received me in the best way and I thank them for that.

“My goals are in line with those of PAOK.

“I came here to give my best, I am thirsty for football and I want to play and show myself on the pitch.

“They told me that this was a great club and I thank the people who brought me here.”

Though preferably a left-back, Lino has quickly dedicated himself to the cause of his new manager Fernando Santos, stating that he can play virtually anywhere on the left-hand side of the pitch.

Such an attitude will be welcomed by the Portuguese manager, who has quickly set about strengthening his squad this month by securing the services of veteran French defender Olivier Sorlin on-loan from Stade Rennais.

Lino will train with his new teammates for the first time today, ahead of their crucial derby clash away against AEK Athens tomorrow.

Iliadis Talks

Although he has struggled for first team football this season, PAOK midfielder Stelios Iliadis has reportedly been offered a new three-year deal by the club.

With his current contract set to expire during the summer, the 23 year-old has been offered yearly wages within the region of €150,000.

Following a meeting with technical director and former Euro 2004-winner Zisis Vryzas, Iliadis apparenty expressed his desire to stay in Thessaloniki but is concerned about a lack of action this season.

Chris Paraskevas, Goal.com