Indian Super League champions Bengaluru FC have signed Brazilian midfielder Raphael Augusto on a two-year deal that keeps him with the Blues till the end of the 2020-21 season, the club announced on Saturday.
Augusto, a native of Rio de Janeiro, becomes the sixth foreigner on Carles Cuadrat's roster as Bengaluru begin their ISL title-defence on October 21 at home against NorthEast United.
The 28-year-old joins Bengaluru after four seasons with Chennaiyin FC, with whom he has won the league twice. He also becomes the first Brazilian to wear the blue of Bengaluru.
Augusto expressed his delight on the move.
"I was amazed in the manner in which the club fought tooth and nail to win the championship last season. Bengaluru have a good coach, a good set of players and some amazing fans and I'm sure all of us can win more titles for the club."
"We're all aware of, and have seen the kind of talent he possesses. The onus is now on us to get the best out of an exceptional player like Raphael. We have a season that also includes Asian competition and a title-defence, and it's going to take experience, talent and hard work to make it a successful one. I believe that Raphael brings all three attributes to the dressing room."