Sporting expecting to sign Portuguese international centreback for free

Having seen Pepe make a return to the Portuguese Primeira Liga, we could be set to witness another Portuguese international defender make the move back to their home country.

That is because Sporting are looking to complete a deal to bring in a high profile Portuguese centreback of their own in June of this year - and contact has already been made.

With his contract with Zenit expiring at the end of this season, the 19 time international is free to negotiate with other clubs, and the 30-year old is looking likely to join Sporting CP in the summer transfer window for no cost at all.

We are, of course, talking about none other than Luis Neto, the former Varzim and Nacional defender, who is on his way to the green half of Lisbon after a successful season in Russia.

Indeed, Neto has played 19 times for Zenit this season, including 5 matches in the Europa League, and has played a significant role in helping Zenit secure top spot in the league as we surpass the halfway point.

Neto would surely prove a terrific signing for the club, adding both experience and quality to the side.