Porto boss Andre Villas-Boas says not even transfer expert Fabrizio Romano knew about Samu Omorodion's move from Atletico Madrid.

Weeks after the big striker's proposed £35 million ($44m) move from Atletico to Chelsea fell through, the Spain under-21 international joined Porto for just £13m ($17m). The move took many by surprise, even Romano himself. Now, Porto manager Villas-Boas has praised Atletico for keeping the deal under wraps.

He told reporters: "He [Omorodion] has started very well. It was a special deal for us because between us [Porto] and Atletico we kept the deal secret. Fortunately for us Fabrizio Romano didn't find anything about this deal, or else we would never have had a chance to do it! We thank Atletico as well for the silence and the respect they had in this operation - one that we did in one week."

In response to this, Romano wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "Fantastic deal, out of nowhere!"

The 6ft 4in forward has been in red hot form for Porto since joining the Portuguese giants. The 20-year-old has scored seven goals in just six matches in all competitions, perhaps highlighting why it was better to stay away from Stamford Bridge.

The former Alaves loanee - who is on a contract until 2029 - could feature for Villas-Boas' Porto side when they are next in action away to Sintrense on October 20 in the third round of the Taca de Portugal.