Alexandre Pato to Liverpool: 'Agreement in principle' for January transfer of Brazil striker

Corinthians player could become Jurgen Klopp's first signing at Anfield 

Simon Rice
Sunday 08 November 2015 13:17 GMT
Comments
Alexandre Pato
Alexandre Pato (GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Liverpool will sign former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato in January, according to his current club's president.

According to Corinthians chief Robero de Andrade, there is "an agreement in principle" between his club and Liverpool, with the former AC Milan striker set to become Jurgen Klopp's first signing as Liverpool manager.

Pato was once considered one of the most exciting prospects in football and spent five years with AC Milan. During that time he scored 63 goals in 150 appearances.

In 2013 he returned to his native country with Corinthians for a £12m fee and last season went on loan to Sao Paulo, where he is again this term.

It's understood Pato is keen on a return to Europe, ideally in Spain or England, and it seems he will get his wish when the transfer window next opens.

"There is an agreement in principle with Liverpool for the transfer in the coming weeks," De Andrade told Tutto Mercato Web.

"Pato had long expressed a desire to return to Europe.

"Liverpool await, there are a few missing details, but Klopp will have a new reinforcement and for Pato the Premier League will be a new springboard."

Pato, who is now 26-years-old, has scored 10 goals in 30 league appearances for Sao Paulo this year and has 27 caps for Brazil.

The striker will provide Klopp with an additional option in Liverpool's depleted attack. Danny Ings is out injured for the season and concerns over Daniel Sturridge's long-term fitness continue.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in