Helder Barbosa, 29, arrived in Dubai late on Tuesday to undergo medical examinations and complete the switch.

His arrival bolsters new coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s squad with a player who has scored an impressive 15 goals during 68 appearances since being snapped up on a free transfer in July 2014 after leaving Braga.

“Al Wasl announces they have signed a contract with Portuguese player Helder Barbosa for two seasons,” the Cheetahs tweeted yesterday.

“Contact talks with the player began two weeks ago and were led by board member Walid Al Shaibani. They ended when the player passed a medical examination.”

The ex-Porto starlet will form part of a fluid attacking quartet alongside retained Brazilians Fabio De Lima and Caio Canedo, plus fellow fresh face Ronaldo Mendes.

His new team have also made 10 Emirati additions this summer, including Al Ahli centre midfielder Humaid Abbas.