Geraldo follows fraternal path to AEK

ΑΕΚ Athens FC have continued rebuilding for next season by signing Portuguese centre-back Geraldo on a three-year contract from FC Paços de Ferreira.

Family ties
The 26-year-old follows in the footsteps of younger brother Bruno Alves who spent the 2004/05 campaign on loan at AEK before returning to FC Porto – he has not looked back since, winning the title this term. The Greek Super League runners-up, who will enter the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round, are thought to have parted with €300,000 to bring Geraldo to the Olympic Stadium. After an excellent season with Paços de Ferreira - sixth in Portugal's Liga - the defender is relishing the chance to play for AEK. "My brother told me about the club," he said. "AEK are known throughout Europe and their fans are passionate and devoted. They love football and are very demanding - I will do my best to please them." Among AEK's other summer recruits is Rivaldo from Olympiacos CFP.