Alecsandro signs for Sporting

UEFA Champions League contenders Sporting Clube de Portugal have signed Brazilian striker Alecsandro Barbosa on a one-year loan from Cruzeiro EC.

Deivid replacement
The 25-year-old has the option of a further three seasons in Lisbon if his first campaign is a success. Previously linked with Spanish side Real Betis Balompié, he is an obvious successor to compatriot Deivid, who joined Fenerbahçe SK yesterday. "This is a big step in my career," said the former EC Vitória, Sport Clube do Recife and AA Ponte Preta player. "I identify with the club and I'm sure I will be successful at Sporting. I hope to score many goals to make the supporters happy." Sporting face FC Internazionale Milano, FC Bayern München and FC Spartak Moskva in UEFA Champions League Group B.