Real Madrid striker set to join Brazil's Palmeiras

Real Madrid striker Willian Jose is close to joining Brazilian giants Palmeiras on loan until the end of the season.

Jose has agreed in principal to a four-month deal with Palmeiras, who are expected to officially announce the 22-year-old's move from the Bernabeu this week, Xinhua reported citing Estado de S.Paulo newspaper.

Under terms of the deal Palmeiras will only pay for the salary of the former Brazil Under-20 international, whose economic rights belong to Uruguay's Deportivo Maldonado.

"We are talking with Deportivo Maldonado, the player and Palmeiras," Willian's agent Nick Arcuri was quoted saying.

"Now we just have to wait. Talks are advanced. Willian is only waiting for my call to be able to have his medical and sign."

Willian joined Real Madrid on loan from Brazil's Santos in January.

He scored three goals in 12 matches for Real Madrid Castilla, the Spanish club's B team which plays in the country's second division.

He was called up to the first team by manager Carlo Ancelotti for Madrid's La Liga duel with Real Sociedad in April but was an unused substitute.