LISBON, July 28 (SW) - Mexico international Jose Francisco Fonseca has joined Portuguese club Benfica, becoming the fourth member of the national squad to leave Mexico this summer.

Mexican players have traditionally chosen to play in the domestic league – one of the strongest in the Americas - rather than venturing abroad, but it has long been Fonseca’s goal to play in Europe.

Speaking last year, the 26-year-old said: "One of my goals is to give it a go there [in Europe]. I'm working towards that every day, and God willing my chance will arrive. If opportunity knocks for me one day, then I'll be ready.”

In January 2005, Fonseca joined Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul in a $4-million transaction, a huge sum for the Mexican top-flight.

He has scored 20 goals in 33 international appearances.