FRISCO, Texas – Pending receipt of his P1 Visa and ITC, FC Dallas has signed Brazilian defensive midfielder Erick, the club announced today. Per league and team policy, terms of the agreement will not be disclosed.

“Erick is a very aggressive ball-winner who has gained a lot of experience the past few seasons in Portugal,” said FC Dallas technical director Fernando Clavijo. “He is another strong addition to an already talented roster that has FC Dallas near the top of the table in 2013.”

Now 24, Erick began his career with Ituano of São Paulo’s first division in 2009. Erick transferred to Estoril of the Portuguese second division in that same year. He played 49 matches and scored one goal for the club in three seasons, which ended with Estoril earning promotion to the Portuguese first division in 2011-12.

Following Estoril’s promotion, Erick joined Portimonense, also of the Portuguese second division. Despite his role as a stay-at-home midfielder, Erick netted two goals for Portimonense in 25 appearances during the 2012-13 campaign. Portimonense finished the season in sixth place with a record of 17-12-13.

Full Name: Erick Neres da Cruz

Hometown: Ilha Solteira, São Paulo, Brazil

Date of Birth: Aug. 24, 1988

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 158

Position: Midfielder

Country: Brazil