Tottenham chase Corinthians star Paulinho

Corinthians have confirmed Tottenham have made a formal offer for their star Paulinho with a view to expand their midfield options at the White Hart Lane.

The 24-year-old Brazilian, who missed his side’s Confederations Cup clash against Italy through an ankle injury, revealed that the Spurs tabled an offer in the region of £17 million for his services. He has also admitted he will make a decision on his future no sooner than after Confederations Cup.

Paulinho said: “There is an official offer from Tottenham to Corinthians. But, as I did when there was an Inter Milan offer, I’ll sit and decide with my family before I make any decision. I will only do it after the Confederations Cup because it’s hard to deal with all these things.”
Corinthians director of football Edu confirmed the switch to Tottenham looks likely, and the negotiations are ongoing. He said: “The situation is well under way. We have to agree on some details of the negotiation, so I can’t say he will leave yet, but the negotiations are good.”