Paulinho: Corinthians coach hopes to keep Brazil star
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Paulinho's club manager at Corinthians is still hoping to keep hold of the Brazil midfielder, who is a Tottenham target.
Reports suggest that the 24-year-old is poised to make the switch to White Hart Lane for a fee of around £17million.
On Sunday night, he will be in action at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for the Confederations Cup final against Spain, having been arguably the star of the tournament thus far. He headed in the winning goal against Uruguay on Wednesday and is widely expected to move to Europe next month.
Amid reports of interest from Real Madrid, Paulinho has been quoted as saying that only Spurs have firmed up their interest.
"Twice before, he almost left. Pending the final decision, I'll wait. He's under no pressure."
Tite
However, speaking on Friday, Corinthians coach Tite revealed that he had a conversation with the player in recent days and has not given up hope of having him available for the two-legged Recopa Sudamericana clash against Sao Paolo next month.
"While Paulinho doesn't come and tell me that he is leaving, I am still hoping we can count on him," said Tite.
"I called him to talk. I knew he had a lot of things on his mind, but I only told him this - follow your head and listen to your family. You'll know what is best for you."
Tite reminded journalists that Paulinho has previously had opportunities to leave the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, but has stayed loyal to date.
"Twice before, he almost left," added Tite. "Pending the final decision, I'll wait. He's under no pressure. If he comes back here and says he wants to play, he'll probably play."
Dream move
Paulinho has been widely quoted as saying that a move to Tottenham would be a "dream" and that he hopes to wrap up a transfer as soon as possible after the tournament.
"It is important for the team and for the Brazilian fans that at the moment all my focus is on winning the Confederations Cup," he said.
"But after the tournament is finished, I hope it is a deal that can get finalised quickly.
"To play in England for a great team like Tottenham is a dream. What I respect about Tottenham is the ambition they have shown.
"This summer there has been interest in their coach and their best player - and they have been clear they are both not going anywhere."
Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11675/8797808/Transfer-news-Corinthians-coach-hopes-to-keep-Tottenham-target-Paulinho
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