From Fluminense to York Region.

York9 FC announced on Thursday the signing of winger William Wallace via a full transfer from Brazilian footballing giants Fluminense Football Club. Y9 inked the 18-year-old Brazilian to a two-year deal that includes an option for another year.

A native of Fortaleza in the northeast of Brazil, the tricky, left-footed player has played up and down the left side on Fluminense’s under-20 squad.

Coming to the CPL from one of South America’s biggest clubs, Wallace has a penchant for scoring goals and promises to be an impact player for the Nine Stripes in 2021.

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“We respect Fluminense as a true giant of world football so to conclude this agreement with them is a big moment for our club,” York9 FC managing consultant Angus McNab said in a media release.

“William is a player that has unbelievable potential. His ability and versatility as a winger, midfielder and wing-back is really impressive. He’s been a regular for Fluminense’s under-20 side and his performances really caught our eye. He’s got the ability to contribute on both sides of the ball and is a great addition to the squad.”

McNab noted that Wallace will join York9 in Canada in the New Year once all the necessary paperwork is processed.

For his part, Wallace views his move to the CPL as opportunity to further develop as a player.

“It’s going to be my first time playing abroad and the Canadian Premier League and York9 is a place where I’ll be able to keep improving my skills and show off my talent and hard work,” Wallace said.

Fluminense, who play at the world-famous Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, has produced some of Brazil’s all-time best players, including Carlos Alberto, Romário, Marcelo and Thiago Silva.

Wallace is the 20th player confirmed for York9’s 2021 roster, joining Niko Giantsopoulos and Cédric Toussaint as the latest roster additions.