Laszlo Sepsi - #33

Benfica introduced their first winter signing this afternoon. His name is Laszlo Sepsi, a 21 year old left back that can also play in the center of the defense or even in the defensive mid slot. Benfica bought Sepsi from Romania's Bistrita, for a not yet disclosed sum. Sepsi is the starting left back for Romania's U-21 national team and will most likely be part of the squad that will play Euro 08 this summer.

It is not the first time out of Romania for Laszlo Sepsi, as the player had a short experience in France with Rennes, back in the season of 05/06. Sepsi was brought to Rennes by Laszlo Bolloni (former Sporting coach) but his experience wasn't the best, and as Bolloni exited Rennes, so did Sepsi, returning to his country to play for Bistrita. Two years later and clearly more mature, Sepsi is being compared in Romania to Chivu, for his strength and technique, and Benfica sees Sepsi has the future.

Sepsi is the first product of Benfica's prospection department that is currently headed by Rui Aguas. According to Luis Felipe Vieira, the player was observed 10 times, all during live action by Benfica's scouts.

According to Luis Felipe Vieira, all of Benfica's signings, going forward, will be under the advisement of the prospection department. Luis Felipe Vieira also told the reporters that Sepsi is the first of a few winter signings for Benfica.
He also had time to acknowledge Benfica's less than favorable current situation, and added that Benfica will be initiating a positive cycle promptly.