Luizao to spearhead Hertha challenge

Brazil striker Luizao is likely to spearhead Hertha BSC Berlin's push for UEFA Cup honours after joining the German club on a free transfer from Grêmio Football Porto Alegrense.

'Great pleasure'
The 26-year-old Luizao, who has penned a four-year contract, has represented his country on eleven occasions, including twice in the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals. "It gives me great pleasure to sign this contract," Luizao said. "I will stay in Berlin for four years and it is my aim to score as many goals as possible and bring pleasure to Hertha BSC."

UEFA Cup draw
Luizao joins fellow countrymen Marcelinho and Alex Alves at the Olympiastadion. Hertha have qualified for the UEFA Cup and will learn their first-round opponents on Friday 30 August when the draw is conducted in Monaco.