Afonso Alves' dream of playing for Brazil in the Olympics could result in the striker missing Middlesbrough's opening games of next season.

The club's record £12.7m signing has expressed his desire to play for his country in Beijing and the Olympic football competition runs from August 6-23 with the Premier League due to start on Saturday, August 16.

If Alves is selected, he could miss up to three league games and the final pre-season warm-up matches.

The Olympic football tournament is a FIFA-sanctioned under-23 tournament with countries able to select three over-age players.

The Evening Gazette understands clubs must release any under-23 players selected by competing nations but don't have to allow over-aged players to attend.

Alves, though, is keen to take part, saying: "I hope to get another chance with the national side and if that chance comes in the Olympics then even better."