Brazilian Defender Sydney Lima Joins Partizan Belgrade on Loan

Brazilian defender Sydney Lima, who was a target for Israeli clubs Netanya and Bnei Sakhnin, is reportedly set to join Serbian club Partizan Belgrade. The 29-year-old center-back arrives from Portuguese side Santa Clara on loan, with Partizan having the option to purchase his contract for €500,000 next summer.

According to Mozzart Sport, negotiations between the clubs have intensified, and Lima is expected to arrive in Belgrade on Thursday for medical examinations. Partizan will cover his salary during the loan spell, making it a financially advantageous move for the Serbian club.

Lima, who stands at 1.85 meters tall, has been with Santa Clara since the summer of 2023 and currently serves as the team's captain. He has made 65 appearances in the Portuguese top league, scoring four goals and providing one assist. His contract with Santa Clara runs until the summer of 2027, with an option for a two-year extension.

Netanya, known as the 'Diamonds,' and Bnei Sakhnin had both expressed interest in signing Lima, but the move to Partizan Belgrade is described as a more 'glamorous' destination than the Israeli Premier League.