Hildebrand joins Sporting

The seven-time Germany international has moved to Portugal on a Bosman transfer after he had cancelled his contract with Hoffenheim in the summer.

Hildebrand, 31, is excited by the challenge of playing for Europa League participants Sporting.

He told Kicker: "I am extremely pleased to see this finally being agreed. I am now aware of my future.

"I am looking forward to representing Sporting. It is a really big club in a good league."

Hildebrand had joined Hoffenheim on a free transfer from La Liga outfit Valencia in January 2009.