Nuno Gomes returns to Benfica

The Florence side were sent down to Serie C1 after failing to prove they can fund themselves this season, and all players were granted free transfers.

The transfer speculation immediately started, with the stars of the squad linked with lucrative moves.

Gomes found life difficult in Italy, and was always keen on a return to his homeland.

The circumstances surrounding his transfer have not sat well with the player, but he seems happy to have returned to his former club.

Speaking at a press conference after penning a four-year deal, Gomes said: "I am returning under sad circumstances for Fiorentina and the people of Florence.

"I decided to choose Benfica because it is a club that I know. They always treated me well and because it was the club that showed the most interest in me."

The 26-year-old had a spell with Benfica between 1997 and 2000, before making a lucrative move to Florence.

He never hit the heights in Serie A, and could not help the club avoid relegation last term.