With the start of the new Premier League season just days away, Tottennham have joined the race to sign Brazilian midfielder Ricardinho.
The Corinthians player has been courted by Leeds United in recent weeks but with Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle desperate to strengthen his squad in time for the seasonal kick-off on Saturday, Tottenham have emerged as serious rivals for his signature.
Hoddle has endured a frustrating summer, failing to attract the star names and the signiung of the Brazilian would go some way to appease the club’s impatient supporters.
Corinthians’ vice-president Roque Citadini has confirmed the north London club’s interest.
“Ricardinho is training with Corinthians because he belongs to our team,” said Citadini.
“What I can’t assure is how long he will continue with us because there is a strong interest from the English team Tottenham Hotspur for buying him.
“At the moment we can’t inform how the negotiations are going because we don’t want to let the press know, it’s because we are waiting for some news from over there (England).
“In the mean time we asked the press not to ask the player always about the same thing because he needs to work calmly. On the other hand, we don’t want him to suffer in case the transfer isn’t done.”
