A top Loreto College footballer has been signed up by a team in the Portuguese Premier League and has already scored his first goal.

Fabio Abreu has been given a three year deal with the Maritimo team based in Funchal Madeira.

The 18-year-old has already had considerable success as an English schoolboy international by scoring twice in three international appearances last season. Fabio also played for the college, Greater Manchester County team where he was a top goal scorer.

Maritimo have signed Fabio on a one-year scholarship which will be followed by a two-year professional contract. He is now intending to complete his BTEC National Diploma in Sport whilst he is in Portugal with help from Loreto staff.

College Football coach Mr Pybus said Fabio was a modest lad and was always thankful for the opportunities the College gave him.

“Whilst playing for all 3 teams here there were scouts watching him from a number of teams including Liverpool, Crewe, and he was even offered a contract at Hibs in Scotland which he turned down. He then got offered a trial for Martimo in Portugal who has now signed for,” he said.

“I have known Fabio for the last two years and he was a joy to work with. Always willing to listen and learn and he never gave up hope on his dream of making it in football. He was willing to always train hard and take advice from myself and others. He is a great lad and I’m sure this is just the start of the story.”

Fabio attended St Peter's RC High School before coming to continue his studies at Loreto.