Bermuda Hogges midfielder Devaun DeGraff is in discussions with FIFA Club World Cup champions International and could be headed to Brazil for trials at the end of next month, The Royal Gazette can reveal.

The 26-year-old Whitney Institute music teacher has received an invitation to train with the Brazilian side and is very keen on striking a deal in South America if all goes according to plan.

“I definitely want to go there if it comes through to see what happens, but it all depends on what they are offering. It’s a very good opportunity for me and a good chance for them to have a good look at me,” DeGraff said.

The talented footballer is no stranger to the land of Samba football having previously attended camps and enjoyed a short playing stint at Sao Paula side FC Paulista two-years ago.

“I have always been a Brazilian fan and I think the camp that I attended there when I was younger helped to mould me into the player that I am and also instil in me some of the philosophies that I have about the game,” he said.

DeGraff feels that his slim build and quick movement both on and off the ball are suited to the Brazilian style of play.

“I am not the biggest guy and so a lot of my ability is trying to move quick and play to my strength,” he added.

“I am attracted more to the short quick moving style of football rather than kick it long and hope for the best like the English game portrays. And I love Brazil very much and the culture there which I think is very interesting.”

DeGraff is currently under contract with the Hogges for the summer but shouldn’t encounter any problems being excused to travel to Brazil, team co-owner Paul Scope said.

“I don’t see any reason why we wouldn’t co-operate with that because one of the reasons why we are doing this Hogges thing is to try and get the players more exposure, and obviously Sammy (Devaun) has done this which I think is great,” Scope added.

“We hope and encourage all of our players to go on to higher levels and so this is great and if it is a genuine opportunity then we would definitely give him our permission, blessing and encouragement and would welcome him with open arms if he was to come back to us.”

DeGraff sat out the Hogges’ opening two USL Division Two matches against Harrisburg City Islanders at the National Sports Centre (NSC) last month through religious beliefs, but enjoyed a stellar performance against the Cincinnati Kings as a starter earlier this month.

“He did very well for us in the last game and is definitely a big part of our plans,” Scope said.

Should DeGraff strike some form of a deal in Brazil, he would become the second Hogges player behind Shaki Crockwell to sever ties and join another outfit this summer.

Striker Crockwell was released earlier this week in favour of plying his trade in the ISL.

“We have over 20 players and so everything should be okay,” added Scope, who says he has the resources to fill any voids.

“But we wish Sammy all the best in his endeavours and hope he succeeds.”