Ryan Gauld: Dundee United made Sporting Lisbon move possible

 

Ryan Gauld paid tribute to Dundee United for helping him seal his move to Sporting Lisbon.

The 18-year-old signed a six-year contact with a 60m euro (£48m) buyout clause after the 18-times Portuguese champions agreed to pay around £3m.

"The club have been great through it all. They've not stood in my way, let me speak to them and helped the deal go through," said the forward.

"It's been a wild few days. It was really an option I couldn't turn down."

The Scotland Under-21 international scored eight goals in 38 games last term and was shortlisted for the PFA Scotland young player of the year award. 

He joins a squad that will compete in this season's Champions League, and a club famed for bringing through the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Figo.

"I'm not really thinking of that just now," said Gauld. "I'm just looking forward to playing for the club and trying to make a good show of myself.

"They've paid a big price but hopefully I can put in good performances for them, establish myself and just do well for them.

"It will be hard but I'm also really looking forward to it. It's going to be a good challenge for myself and I'm excited by it."

Gauld was first told of Sporting's approach by manager Jackie McNamara when he reported back for pre-season training on Monday

"When I first heard I was a bit overwhelmed by it," he admitted.