The Sailors said that FC Vizela has demonstrated a strong commitment to youth development, with 16 of its under-23 players featuring for the first team over the past four years.
Lion City Sailors technical director Luka Lalic said Khairin has earned this opportunity to compete in Portugal, and that he must make the most of the next 18 months to prove he is ready for the next step in his development.
“Given Vizela’s club structure, the people working closely with him, and Khairin’s own mindset and desire to succeed, I believe – with a bit of luck – he can do very well and make both clubs proud.”
FC Vizela’s sporting director Toni Dovale said: “We’ve been investing a lot in our youth development program in the past few years, and signing top international talents is a part of our step forward as a club.
“Having played in Asia as a player, I’ve heard very good things about Khairin Nadim, and that was why I was keen to find out more about him.
“That proved to be the case in his trials with us, and we’re excited to see how far his potential can take him.”
Khairin could make his debut for his new club’s under-23 team on Feb 25 when it takes on Benfica B in the Liga Revelacao.
He said: “I’m grateful to the Sailors not just for shaping me into the player I am today, but also for creating this incredible opportunity for me.
“Playing in Europe has always been my goal, and I’m happy to be able to realise this dream.
“I’m not just representing the Sailors, but also Singapore as a young player here. I’ll train hard, prove myself, and show that I belong on the big stage.”
Khairin is not the first Singaporean to sign for a Portuguese side. Last year, another Sailor, midfielder Nur Muhammad Asis, went on loan to top-flight club CF Estrela da Amadora.
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