Arsenal academy goalkeeper Pedro Virginia joined FC Porto in a permanent transfer this week, with his new club confirming the move.

FC Porto posted on their club website on Friday to officially confirm the signing of Pedro Virginia from Arsenal. The 16-year-old goalkeeper will sign a contract to 2023 after spending four seasons with the Gunners.

Virginia already revealed that he was leaving Arsenal with a post on Instagram earlier on Friday. He admitted he’s grateful to everyone at the club for giving him the chance to represent it on the pitch.

The Portuguese u16 international clearly didn’t want to pass up on the chance to return to his home country, though. He told the Porto website it was one of his dreams to play for them.

“Wearing this jersey is a great pride,” Virginia said. “The scouts have been following me for eight years now and it was a dream of mine for a long time.

“I was offered a big opportunity and hopefully I will make it to the first team. It was a very good experience in England. It was four great years with a great team, but now I came to FC Porto, a super team, one of the best in Europe, and I am very happy.”

Virginia made his debut for the Portugal u16s earlier this year, whilst featuring regularly at that level for Arsenal as well. He wasn’t yet on a scholarship contract, making it easier for him to transfer this summer.

It’s definitely not easy trying to make it to the top as a goalkeeper. The pathway to regular football can often be long, winding and unclear. Virginia clearly believes Porto suit his development goals better, so good luck to him in Portugal!