Bruno Alves Linked with Portugal Return

Fenerbahce defender Bruno Alves is being linked with a move back to Portugal this Summer...

The 33-year old Portuguese international centre-back formed a formidable force alongside fellow defender Egemen Korkmaz in the back since he joined Fenerbahce but with his contract expiring in June 2016; Fenerbahce are rumored to be looking for a replacement.

Conveniently, according to Turkish newspaper Milliyet Portuguese giants Benfica and Sporting Lisbon are both tracking the veteran centre-back.

Bruno Alves was quoted as saying "I am happy here (at Fenerbahce); however I can think of Sporting and Benfica if they want me."

On the other hand, Fenerbahce issued an official statement saying: "The reports linking our player Bruno Alves with a move out of Fenerbahce are false; Bruno has a contract with the club and wants to stay here."

Bruno Alves joined Fenerbahce from Zenit St. Petersburg in 2013 for a fee of 5.5 million euros and is on a weekly wage of 50,000 euros (2.4/year).

He is Portugal's vice-captain having scored 10 goals in 78 appearances for his national team since his first cap in 2007.