Sligo Rovers snap up forward Walter Figueira

Premier Division Sligo Rovers have unveiled the signing of striker Walter Figueira ahead of the 2021 season from Derry City.

The 25-year-old ex-Chelsea academy graduate has scored nine league goals since making his League of Ireland debut in 2019 with Waterford.

While at Derry during the 2020 season, he scored five times for the Candystripes as they missed out on European football for 2021.

And after he could not help fire Derry to Europe, Figueira has made the move to Sligo – a side who qualified for European competition.

“I’m really looking forward to playing some exciting football here,” he said after joining. “The style of play here is very attractive, and I feel like I can contribute a lot to the side.

“The manager reassured me he would take care of me with my family and give me the freedom to do what I do best on the pitch.

“I was very convinced by him and I trust the players we have in the squad. I’m looking forward to it.”

Sligo boss Liam Buckley added: “Walter is a player I have recognised going back to his youth days at Chelsea.

‘We made our interest known quite a few months ago and I’m delighted he has signed today.

“His spells in Waterford and Derry have shown what a good technical player he is. Looking at his ability, I feel Walter can make an even greater impact and we’ve brought him here to do that.”