Nestory Irankunda, the 20-year-old Australian international winger, arrived in Lisbon on Tuesday night ahead of completing his move to Sporting.

Irankunda landed at Humberto Delgado Airport shortly after 10 p.m. local time following a delayed flight from London.

The Australian had little to say to reporters as he left the airport, but expressed his excitement about joining the Portuguese club.

“I’m very happy to be here, it means a lot. I’m happy to have the chance to play in the Champions League,” Irankunda said.

Asked what he could bring to Sporting, the winger highlighted his pace and versatility in attack.

“I’m a very fast player. I’m a forward, I can play anywhere up front,” he replied.

The young winger also revealed that he has not yet spoken with Sporting head coach Rui Borges or any members of the squad, but that is expected to change once he completes the formalities of his move.

On Wednesday, Irankunda is scheduled to complete his medical and physical examinations in Lisbon and at Sporting’s Cristiano Ronaldo Academy in Alcochete. Once those formalities are completed, he is expected to be officially unveiled as a new Sporting player.

The 20-year-old Australian international impressed during the 2026 World Cup and will join Sporting from Watford in a deal worth €15 million (AUD$24.5 million).

The Portuguese club could pay a further €3 million (AUD$4.9 million) in performance-related bonuses, depending on the agreed conditions.

Irankunda is set to commit his long-term future to Sporting by signing a five-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2031.