Former Real Madrid striker Saviola joins Benfica

MADRID, June 27 -- Striker Javier Saviola completed his move from Real Madrid to Portuguese side Benfica on Saturday.

The 27-year-old Argentinean cost Benfica 5 million euros and has signed a three-year contract with the club.

His transfer ends a frustrating two-year spell with Real Madrid, who he joined on a free transfer from bitter rivals FC Barcelona.

However despite having scored 12 goals in 44 games for the Argentinean national team, he was never first choice and made just 28 appearances in all competitions for Real Madrid. His two years in the Spanish capital yielded just five goals.

Saviola will hope his form improves in Portugal so that he can earn a place in the Argentina squad for the 2010 World Cup. The good news for is that at Benfica he will be united with Pablo Aimar, a player whom he began his career with in Argentina when they both played for club side River Plate.