Pato close to Corinthians move, says agent

02-Jan-2013 5:50:00 PM

The Brazil international is set to make a return to his homeland and turn down the advances of a host of European clubs in the process

AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato is close to completing his move to Corinthians, according to the player's agent Gilmar Veloz.

The 23-year-old's time at San Siro has been blighted by injury and news of a return to his homeland has surfaced in recent weeks.

A number of European clubs are also reported to have registered their interest, but his representative insists Pato is determined to return to Brazil as soon as possible.

"He is a young player and he has caught the interest of European sides," Veloz told Radio Globo.

"But he has decided to return to Brazil and that is his final decision. Duilio [Alves Monteiro, associate director] and Roberto [de Andrade, director of football], must set the end of this week to conclude business."

Meanwhile, the player's old physiotherapist at former club Internacional has dismissed any concerns regarding his fitness and says Timao will be getting a supreme athlete.

"We are talking about a great athlete with great speed and muscle power," Mauren Mansur explained to Seporte Interativo.

"It is unfortunate that he has had a high number of injuries but he had examinations in the USA and they didn't reveal anything serious for the future."