PLDC - Lisbon, Young Iranian goalkeeper, Taha Zareei, joins Sporting CP's academy.

Zareei started training with Sporting's main squad today. He has joined Sporting's reserve team which consists of young players in their early 20's and late teens.

Taha Zareei is only 18-years-old himself, and is viewed as one of the biggest prospects for the new generation of Iranian players.

After training with Zareei, Sporting's number-one GK, Rui Patricio said, "This goalkeeper is very talented, especially for an Asian GK. I hope I can help him become a star. As the captain of this team, I want to see all my teammates succeed. I wish him the best, and will support him fully."

Last week, Zareei and his agency (Loyalty Football Agency) rejected an offer from Benfica, and today it became clear as to why they made this decision.

With this move, Zareei (increasingly nicknamed The New Eagle of Asia) is now truly soaring high above other new generation Iranian goalkeepers.

Exited about his huge career move, Zareei told PersianLeague.com, "I am very happy. Today is one of the greatest days of my life. I love Sporting. The people here are great; everyone from the coaches, players, to the fans. I am improving everyday, and hope to reach the highest places in the world of football."

By: Arman Tamjidi