Sheffield United have completed the signing of Vinicius Souza from Belgian side Lommel.
The 24-year-old joins the newly-promoted Blades for a "substantial undisclosed fee", penning a four-year deal that will keep him at Bramall Lane until 2027.
Vinicius bolsters Sheffield United's midfield ranks, with the news of his arrival coming less than an hour after the club confirmed Sander Berge's move to fellow Premier League side Burnley.
The Brazilian becomes Sheffield United's fifth signing of the summer, following Auston Trusty, Benie Traore, Anis Slimane and Yasser Larouci through the door.
"I'm very happy to be here, signing for the Blades. I want to say thank you to everyone for making this happen," the new arrival told the club's official website.
Vinícius Souza is a Blade. 🇧🇷✍️ pic.twitter.com/i8Nk17nRbw
— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) August 9, 2023
"The coach sent me messages of support, I'm very happy, it is my dream to play in the Premier League, I don't care who I play against."
Manager Paul Heckingbottom added: "Vini is athletic, enjoys the defensive side of the game and likes to compete, we know we are getting a good player and he knows what role we want him to perform for us.
"He is someone we have known for a long time, we became aware of him the Christmas before last when I first saw him and we started discussing him. This summer is the first time our paths have aligned and we've been able to go for him.
"I'm delighted we've been able to get him on a permanent deal, we thought it would only be a loan, but we think he is going to be really important for us this season - and going forward.
"There has been a lot of hard work gone into getting him to Bramall Lane and I think that's why he has chosen us over other options."
Vinicius, who made 37 La Liga appearances while on loan at Espanyol last season, could make his debut for the Blades when they begin life back in the Premier League at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Barney Corkhill
