Cruzeiro set to sign PAOK's Diego Arias - report

Dec 28, 2011 3:09:00 PM

The former Deportivo Pereira and Once Caldas star will be announced as a Raposa player in the coming days, after agreeing a move away from Greece

Cruzeiro are on the verge of securing the services of Colombia midfielder Diego Arias from PAOK.

La Tarde reports that the Pereira native, 26, has agreed a move to Belo Horizonte from Greece and the transfer is expected to become official in the next few days. Details of the agreement are yet to be disclosed, but Cruzeiro reportedly fought off interest from Atletico Nacional to seal a deal with the player.

Arias came to prominence in Once Caldas' successful 2010 campaign and was captain when they lifted the Finalizacion championship of that year. He signed a one-and-a-half year deal with PAOK in January 2011 and was called up by Colombia coach Leonel Alvarez for the World Cup qualifying clashes with Venezuela and Argentina in November.

Meanwhile, Cruzeiro youngster Leo Bonatini responded to speculation that he would be included in a deal to bring Roque Santa Cruz to the club from Manchester City and affirmed that he would be happy to move to England.

"I was happy [hearing the rumours], it proves that my work is going well and that I am following the right path," the 18-year-old stated.

"Whether I leave Brazil or stay here, I want the best for Cruzeiro and the best for me and that everything goes well."

Cruzeiro finished a disappointing 16th in the Brasileirao and missed out on both Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana football for 2012.

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