According to reports in Brazil, Flamengo could be about to seal a deal with the Italian islanders that will take one of the new young guns out of Rio de Janeiro and across to Serie A.
Brazilian agency Gazeta Press broke the news that ex goalie-turned agent Gilmar Rinaldi has flown to Palermo, charged with arranging the transfer of player number 10 Renato Augusto.
Palermo are rumoured to be offering up to 15 million Euros, however a hoping that Flamengo are looking for up to double to release the young gun. Rinaldi has already spoken with the player's rep Carlos Leite.
The main obstacle – inspite of Flamengo's somewhat elevated pretensions – is that the player lacks that modern transfer lubricant, a European passport, even though the club has confidence that an agreement can be reached.
The last young Flamengo player to hit Italy was Inter Milan number 10 Adriano, and if hands are shaken with the Rosaneri the Rubro-negro man will join fellow Brazilians Amauri and Simplicio at Palermo.
06 07 2007
Chile and Mexico advanced to the last 16 of the U20 World Cup after wins Thursday, whilst hosts Canada suffered their 2nd straight defeat.
Chile gained the upper hand against Congo when the African side had defender Yann Combo sent off for a challenge on Dagoberto Currimilla after only 22 minutes.
Alexis Sanchez put the Chileans ahead in the 49th minute before a thundering drive from Nicolas Medina made it 2-0, and a curling shot from Arturo Vidal 8 minutes from the end wrapped up an impressive display from the South Americans.
FC Barcelona's Giovanni dos Santos continued his impressive tournament as he helped Mexico on their way to a 2-1 triumph over Portugal.
Dos Santos opening the scoring in the 48th minute from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Paulo Renato, before Carlos Barrera made it 2-0 with an impressive 1st time strike.
Antunes pulled one back for Portugal in the final minute with a superb free-kick, however it was too late for a comeback.
Portugal must battle it with Gambia for 2nd spot, both teams are on 3 points after the Africans beat New Zealand 1-0, thanks to a diving header from Ousmane Jallow in the 22nd minute.
Canada's disappointment continued with a 1-0 defeat to Austria in Edmonton. Rubin Okotie scored the vital goal in the 47th minute with a firm header from a corner.
Friday's games include a fascinating encounter between an impressive U.S and Brazil whilst Poland take on South Korea.
27 06 2007
Sevilla have agreed new contracts with 3 of the players who helped the club win the UEFA Cup and Copa del Rey this season.
French defender Julien Escude, 27, and Brazilian midfielder Renato Dirnei, 28, have had their contracts extended by 4 years, whilst 22 year old Spaniard Antonio Puerta was given a new 5 year deal.
The Andalusian club, who as well as their double cup success finished 3rd in the Primera Liga this season, are also in talks with other players, that included captain Javi Navarro and highly rated young winger Jesus Navas.
