Pedro Lima closing in on Sporting move
Former Norwich City loanee Pedro Lima is set to join Portuguese giants Sporting CP, according to The Pink'un. The midfielder is due to undergo a medical ahead of a five-year contract at the Jose Alvalade Stadium.
The deal is reported to be worth up to €4 million, with an additional €2 million in performance-related add-ons. Palmeiras, Lima’s parent club before his move to Europe, are said to be entitled to 30% of the transfer fee.
Lima’s journey from Carrow Road to Primeira Liga
Lima spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Norwich City from Palmeiras, featuring mainly for the development side under then Under-21 coach Alan Neilson. He made 14 Premier League Two appearances, contributing seven goals and captaining the side in a 2-0 defeat to Southampton.
He was named in the first-team matchday squad by David Wagner for a Championship fixture at Preston North End in April 2024 but did not make an appearance. Shortly after, Norwich confirmed his departure.
Following his time in England, Lima spent a season on loan at Croatian top-flight club NK Osijek before securing a permanent move to Portuguese Primeira Liga side AVS Futebol SAD last summer. This season, he has impressed with 29 appearances and eight goal contributions, attracting Sporting’s interest.
Lima’s farewell to Norwich fans
In a farewell message on Instagram, Lima wrote: “Thank you, Norwich City FC, for the opportunity. It was an honour. I wish all the best for this incredible club. Come on, you Yellows.”
Two years after his exit, Lima remains the last player Norwich have recruited directly from South America, despite the club maintaining two full-time scouts in the region.
Sporting’s season and Champions League hopes
Sporting CP are currently second in the Primeira Liga, two points clear of rivals SL Benfica and holding a strong goal difference advantage. FC Porto have already secured the league title ahead of the final weekend.
The Lisbon club are also in control of the race for Champions League qualification, offering Lima the chance to compete in Europe’s premier club competition for the first time. Sporting reached the Champions League semi-finals this season and remain a significant step up from Lima’s time at Carrow Road.