Inter confirm Lúcio exit

Inter Milan have just announced that defender Lúcio has cancelled his contract with the club by mutual consent.

Lúcio's deal was not due to expire until 2014 but the 34-year-old has agreed an early release with the Nerazzurri, ending a three year stint in Italy.

The veteran centre-back, recently linked with Turkish side Fenerbahce, has been deemed surplus to requirements at San Siro and his departure is said to have took place in a consensual and friendly manner.

An official statement on the club's website said: ''F.C. Internazionale announce that the documents relating to the mutually-agreed termination of Lúcio's contract have been filed in the offices of Lega Serie A.

''To Lúcio and his family, the most affectionate farewell from all at F.C. Internazionale.''

Lúcio made 135 appearances for the club, scoring five goals and winning a Scudetto, two editions of the Coppa Italia, a Supercoppa Italia, one UEFA Champions League and a Club World Cup.

His departure paves the way for Matias Silvestre to complete his expected transfer from Palermo as Inter look to revamp their squad this summer.