Bayern Munich's Rafinha close to Flamengo move

Bayern Munich's Brazilian right-back Rafinha has revealed he is in advanced talks over a move to Rio de Janeiro giants Flamengo.

The 33-year-old's contract with the reigning Bundesliga champions is due to expire in May, meaning he is now free to sign a pre-contract with another club, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We sat down to talk. I've seen Flamengo's plans and I like them a lot," Rafinha said in a statement released by his management team.

"I want to continue winning trophies and I see Flamengo having that possibility. There is mutual interest at both ends and we are close to reaching an agreement.

"There are still some details that need to be resolved and I hope we can do that as soon as possible. I would like to make it clear that Flamengo is my first option if I return to Brazil."

Rafinha, capped four times for Brazil's national team, has made 172 Bundesliga appearances for Bayern since his 2011 move from Genoa.

Flamengo have been busy bolstering their squad since finishing second in Brazil's 2018 Serie A championship last month.

Among those to commit to the club in recent weeks are Brazil international centre-back Rodrigo Caio and striker Gabriel Barbosa, who joined on loan from Inter Milan this week.

--IANS

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