Nazmi set join Beira-Mar

Harimau Muda star Nazmi Faiz is close to joining Portuguese top-flight side Beira-Mar, ESPNSTAR.com has been told.

Earlier this year, Nazmi had been linked with a move to Malaysian owned Cardiff City, however, Harimua Muda coach Ong Kim Swee has revealed that the talented 17-year-old now looks set to land a contract with Beira-Mar who are currently 12^th in Portugal's Primeira Liga.

Nazmi, who is scheduled to fly to Portugal with his father on Sunday, will attend a trial with the Aveiro-based side, before signing a pre-contract deal.

"After a couple of days of speculation in regards to Nazmi heading to Europe, we have now got an agreement between Nazmi and the Portuguese club Beira Mar. He will go for a trial with them from May 14 until May 21," Ong explained.

"This is an excellent development. Nazmi was approached by a scout who officially invited him down for the selection process.  All this has come about because of Nazmi's own efforts, and Beira-Mar have every confidence in his ability."

Despite facing the prospect of losing one of one of his key players in the middle of an S.League season, Ong is adamant that the bigger picture is far more crucial.

"We have to make the sacrifice," he said.

"The S.League is important, but I will never hesitate if any of my players get a chance to play overseas, especially in Europe. It is, after all, Harimau Muda's intent to develop Malaysia's future footballers."

"This is great news in terms of the development of Malaysian football. We hope that Nazmi will cherish the opportunity to play in Portugal's top-flight next season," Ong concluded.

According to strictly enforced FIFA regulations, Nazmi will only be able to sign a professional contract with his new club after turning 18 on August 16.

Wan Zack Haikal and Wan Zaharulnizam, who are both 21, are also expected to move oversees in the very near future, with the pair edging closer to deals with Japanese third division side FC Ryukyu.