Lyon snare Fábio Santos talent

Nacional service
The 26-year-old arrives for a second spell in Europe after a disappointing season at Portuguese side CD Nacional in 2004/05, when he made just six appearances before returning to Brazil to join Cruzeiro. He has since played 33 league games in his homeland, claiming the Minas Gerais state championship last year, and attracting the attention of Lyon who have landed him on a three-and-a-half year contract.

Immediate action?
The Paraiba-born player, whose full name is Fábio dos Santos Barbosa, will link up with compatriots Juninho Pernambucano, Cris, Claudio Caçapa and Fred at the Stade Gerland, and might not have long to wait for his debut. With Alou Diarra and Jérémy Toulalan ruled out through injury and suspension respectively, and Tiago doubtful, the newcomer could feature in the French Cup last-16 tie against Olympique de Marseille on Wednesday.