The improbable career trajectory of Brazilian teenager Ângelo Gabriel continued as he completed his transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr in a $25 million deal on Tuesday, a year after joining Chelsea from Santos.
During his one-year spell at Chelsea following a $17 million transfer, Gabriel never played for the English club because he was loaned to Strasbourg, one of the teams owned by Chelsea's American investors.
The 19-year-old was part of Chelsea's squad for the pre-season tour of the United States but left on a permanent deal for Al Nassr, where he will play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
The move was announced a day after the Saudi Arabian transfer window closed and will help Chelsea comply with financial rules in the Premier League and UEFA competitions.
Another Brazilian teenager, Deivid Washington, joined Chelsea from Santos last year around the same time as Gabriel and was close to making a permanent move to Strasbourg, but sources told ESPN the west London club called off the transfer after concerns were raised about the deal and whether it complies with competition rules.
“We wish Angelo all the best as he begins the next chapter of his career and thank him for his efforts during his time at Chelsea,” the Premier League club said in a statement.
Gabriel became the youngest player in the history of the Brazilian national championship when he made his senior debut for Santos at 15 years and 308 days.
