321 Work Permit Part 2 (2/2)
Dunn, who had been listening in, was shocked. He knew what it meant for Tang En to activate the Exceptional Talent Clause, which could only be used once in an entire season. To activate that precious clause for a defender? Was Tang En crazy?
Over the phone, Evan evidently had the same thoughts as Dunn. Shocked, he said, ”Are you crazy, Tony? He's only a fullback!”
”Can't fullbacks also be geniuses, Evan?” Tang En shot back. ”We can search in the EU players for the other positions. But for Pepe, if we don't take him now, I guarantee we'll regret it. So long as we give him an opportunity, groom him, and trust him, he will become a world-class fullback! Then, we can proudly announce that this world-class defender came from Nottingham Forest Club!”
The other side of the phone fell into silence. Dunn waited quietly as well.
After a long while, Evan Doughty's voice sounded. ”Alright, Tony. You have full say over the matters of the team. If you think doing this is worth it, then go ahead.”
”Thank you, Evan.” Tang En realized that he had seemed overly forceful before his club's chairman. After gaining the result he wanted, he made sure to get a good gauge of Evan's feelings. ”In two years' time, I believe you'll be very happy.”
Ending the call with the chairman, Tang En found Dunn staring at him.
”What's the matter?”
”You're that sure this Brazilian would become a world-class fullback?” Dunn asked.
”No, I'm not certain. Not at all.” Tang En answered with a shake of his head. ”I'm only betting. His chances of success and failure are both 50%. It's half-and-half.” This was the truth. Even Tang En, who had transmigrated, could not be certain that the players he was familiar with could be as successful in this world. His arrival had, in most instances, created too many variables.
”I don't like to gamble,” Dunn said, returning to his never-ending stream of videos.
Tang En shrugged behind him. ”I like the thrill of making a bet.” Then, he dipped his head again to dial Pepe's agent, Jorges Mendes.
”Mr. Mendes. We've decided to use the Exceptional Talent Clause to apply for Pepe's work permit. We need you to provide all the information you have on him.”
Like the other two, Mendes was taken aback. He had heard about the two suggestions provided by FC Porto. Wouldn't a more normal person pick the second option? But if he could seal the deal now, he would be more than happy to. After all, Forest was the one who had to go through the trouble, not him. So, he nodded and said, ”No problem. We have all the information; even during his period of play in Corinthians Alagoano.”
Tang En was glad of Mendes' cooperation with him. ”Thank you, Mr. Mendes. Additionally, if possible, it'll be best if you are able to find someone with considerable influence in the scene to testify to Pepe's capabilities. That way, his chances of getting through will be much better.”
”Someone with considerable influence?” Mendes said, pondering. ”I have someone in mind. Whether it is his influence, ability, or qualifications… he's exceptional.”