Lucio quits Munich for Inter Milan

Bayern Munich’s Brazilian international defender Lucio is heading for Serie A champions Inter Milan, the German club announced on Thursday.

“Lucio is moving immediately to Inter Milan,” said club president Uli Hoeness, adding that the hugely experienced defender was set to sign a three-year contract with the Italian outfit.

The fee involved has not been revealed but is believed to be around 10 milion euros (14 million dollars), German sports media said.

The 31-year-old captained Brazil to the Confederations Cup title in South Africa earlier this month.

Lucio’s departure could herald several more departures from the south German club, Bayern coach Louis Van Gaal suggested.

“I have always said I work with 22 players and three juniors. It is very important for the players to have the chance of taking part in matches and that sometimes does not happen when the team is too big, it is not good for motivation,” the Dutchman said.

Bayern’s first-team squad currently comprises 27 players, so the implication would be that up to five could go before the start of the season.