Sporting CP announced on Tuesday, August 25, the signing of 17-year-old Moroccan international Moncef Zekri from KV Mechelen. The left-back has signed a contract with the Lisbon club until June 2029, which includes an €80 million release clause.
Zekri will join Sporting’s first team directly, strengthening the left side of Rui Borges’ squad. Born in Brussels, the young defender makes his first move into professional football outside Belgium.
“It is a real honor to sign for a club like this, so prestigious and with such a rich history. I am very proud to be here,” the Atlas Lion cub said during his presentation.
The 17-year-old also spoke about his admiration for Nuno Mendes, who came through Sporting’s academy and plays in the same position. “Cristiano Ronaldo grew up here, as did Nuno Mendes, who plays in my position and whom I admire a lot. He has become the best left-back in the world and is my biggest source of inspiration,” he said.
Zekri came through the KV Mechelen academy and made his first-team debut at just 16. Last season, he played 17 matches in all competitions for the Belgian club.
At international level, Zekri was part of the Morocco U17 team that won the 2025 Africa U17 Cup of Nations. A few months later, the left-back also featured at the U17 World Cup, where Morocco reached the quarterfinals.
