体坛英语新闻：Ze Roberto's return to Brazilian soccer may be with Corinthians

RIO DE JANEIRO, May 16 (Xinhua) -- Despite his return to Brazilian soccer having been speculated to be at Santos, Ze Roberto alleged on Saturday that he is close to closing a deal with Corinthians.

    The midfielder is planning his future after his contract expires with his German team of Bayern, planning his arrival at Corinthians in 2010.

    "Despite Bayern having offered a contract extension, Corinthians is the only Brazilian team that has sought me out. They want me to play for them during the 100 year anniversary and claim they want to make a serious run at winning the Libertadores Cup in 2010. Also, with Ronaldo on the team, the club is more attractive. I will seriously think about the offer," said Ze Roberto.

Bayern Munich's Ze Roberto (R) talks with team mate Martin Demichelis after Barcelona's second goal during their Champions League quarter-final, first-leg soccer match at the Nou Camp stadium April 8, 2009

    When asked about the deal, team president Andres Sanchez denied any knowledge of conversation and denied offering the star midfielder any type of incentives. However, Sanchez did mention that the team has interest in hiring him in the future.

    The 34 year-old was discovered while playing for the Brazilian team of Portuguesa. He also played for Flamengo, Real Madrid and Bayer Luverkusen. He has spent the last seven years with Bayern of Munich.