26 June 2007, by Tom Kundert

Sporting look East to strengthen squad

Izmailov “highly satisfied”; Vukcevic 5-year deal lined up

Sporting yesterday completed the signing of Russian midfielder Izmailov. “This is a highly satisfying move for me,” said the 21-year-old after successfully completing his medical. “My first impressions of the club could not be better.”

The Lions have now turned their attention to securing the definitive transfer of Montenegrin star Vukcevic, who also plays in the Russian League.

Skilful midfielder Izmailov has been brought to Alvalade on a season-long loan deal. A clause was also written into the deal allowing the Lisbon club to extend the loan for a further season or to purchase the player outright for four million euros.

“I like the way football is played in Portugal, because it’s very technical, very good to watch in terms of entertainment. For me it’s important to play like this because it’s the kind of football I like.”

Izmailov further highlighted the emphasis he places on the skill factor by revealing that his football idols are Maradona and Messi. “They are the players I look up to. They are only references, but I work hard every day to try and go far in the game as well.”

Vukcevic almost a done deal

Meanwhile, negotiations between Sporting and FC Saturn for the transfer of Vukcevic to the Lisbon club are expected to be concluded by Wednesday.

The attacking midfielder’s agent, Zoran Stojadinovic, said the player has already gone to the Portuguese embassy in Belgrade to apply for the work visa.

“The visa should be issued on Wednesday,” said the agent. “Vukcevic is extremely excited and looking forward to starting his career with Sporting. If it was up to him he would begin training tomorrow.”

The terms between Sporting and the player have already been defined with the midfielder set to ink a contract for five seasons.

To conclude the deal Sporting must agree the transfer fee with his Russian club FC Saturn, which is believed to be in the region of four million euros.


Related: Izmailov brought in to replace Nani