Corinthians midfielder Paulinho confirms that after the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup he will move to an English Premier League club, with Tottenham Hotspur believed to be the team in question.
Brazil international midfielder Paulinho says he has agreed to move from Corinthians to an English club for €20 million (approximately £17.2m), with Tottenham Hotspur widely considered to be the team in question.
The 24 year-old revealed in a tearful press conference that he is grateful to Corinthians for three tremendous years, but that he was moving on to improve himself in Europe.
“It’s hard to say anything at a moment like this, but I can say for certain that these were three wonderful years in my career, with many titles,” said Paulinho during today’s announcement.
“What I have to say to Corinthians fans, board and staff is ‘see you soon’ – I will be back in no time, due to everything they have done for me.
“My individual titles are all thanks to the club, Corinthians will be in my heart for the rest of my life.”
Earlier, Corinthians president Roberto de Andrade had praised Paulinho for his service over the preceding three seasons.
“I want to thank Paulinho for everything he has done for Corinthians,” said de Andrade.
“We will never forget him – the great person he is – and his national team title (the Confederations Cup with Brazil) is well-deserved.
“Corinthians are proud for having had a player like him. It’s fair he continues his life at an English club, to know a new culture.”
Paulinho is a top class box to box midfielder, and his performances across the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup will be immensely encouraging to Spurs fans – particularly his game in the final against a Spain central midfield of Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
Strong in the tackle, an incisive dribbler, good passer and with an eye for goal, Paulinho represents everything a modern midfielder needs.
Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of a top four finish in the 2013-14 Barclays Premier League have improved rather significantly.
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