Hull City have missed out on signing Bristol Rovers winger Alefe Santos after he opted to join Championship club Derby County today.
The 19-year-old had been chased by the Tigers for over a month and was the subject of a rejected bid as the Pirates aimed to hang on to the youngster.
When Santos turned down an extended deal with the Conference new boys it had looked like the opportunity for City to pounce but Derby's offer of a two-year contract has drawn the Brazil-born rookie to Pride Park.
A greater opportunity to play first-team football has helped Derby to win the race and Rams head coach Steve McClaren told the Derby Telegraph: "He is a player with potential and has the determination to improve, so we are looking forward to working with him."
Santos had been earmarked to join City's under-21s ranks alongside 17-year-old striker Jarrod Bowen, who has agreed a three-year deal to move from Hereford United.
