Sporting Lisbon offer return to Real Madrid's Figo

Sporting Lisbon are chasing Real Madrid star Luis Figo.

The Portugal international is expected to be released from his contract at Real 12 months early at the end of this season.

Sporting are already sounding out sponsors to assist in bringing Figo back to his old club, but won't move officially until the 32 year-old's exit from Real is rubberstamped.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson spoke of his admiration for Figo last week, while offers have also arrived from Brazil. Sporting are banking on their emotional ties with Figo to clinch his signature should he become available in June.