Real Betis have already started planning for next season, executing their first signing ahead of time, with the addition of Johnny Cardoso from Internacional in Brazil.
The 22-year-old USA international, born in New Jersey of Italo-Brazilian origin has already won nine caps for the red and white stripes. Cardoso was wanted by the likes of Brighton, Valencia and Roma, but former Sporting Director Antonio Cordon was already able to lay the groundwork for a deal when signing Abner Vinicius for last January.
Cardoso will move for €4-5m according to Relevo (via ED), and could be the long-term replacement for Guido Rodriguez, who is out of contract at the end of the season. A pivot, like Rodriguez he stands out for his ball-winning ability and positional sense.
With the signing of Abner, Luiz Henrique and now Johnny, it appears Betis feel they can find an edge in the Brazilian market. Like Real Madrid and Barcelona, the growing financial power outside of Spain but within Europe is forcing them into a more creative recruitment strategy.
