Cavalry FC announced on Monday that the club has signed 21-year-old attacking midfielder Lucas Dias on loan from Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon.

Born in Toronto, Dias joined Sporting’s Toronto academy at a young age and was invited to their academy in Portugal when he was nine years old. After joining Sporting permanently at age 11, Dias signed his first professional contract with the club at 16 years old.

“Lucas is an exciting talent that has had a great upbringing in one of Europe’s top clubs,” said Tommy Wheeldon Jr., Head Coach and General Manager, Cavalry FC.  “He is a clever, attack-minded player that wants to make things happen in the opponent’s half. We look forward to him wearing our crest and providing another attacking piece to our squad.”

Dias brings experience to the squad because of his upbringing in Sporting’s system, with 49 appearances made for the club across their U-19 and U-23 squads and Sporting CP B. Internationally, Dias has so far made four appearances for the Canadian U-23 National Team.

“It’s a great feeling to now be part of this club and journey,” said Dias. “I can’t wait to get started.”

Cavalry FC will kick off their 2024 campaign in the Concacaf Champions Cup on February 21 as they host MLS side Orlando City SC at Starlight Stadium.