Lulinha agrees deal

Chelsea-target gets new Corinthians contract

By Graeme Bailey   Last updated: 6th December 2007

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Lulinha: Staying put

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Chelsea target Lulinha has agreed a new contract at Corinthians.

The 17-year-old has agreed a new four-and-half year deal worth a reported £24million, replacing his previous contract which was due to expire in 2009.

"We have renewed the contract with him up to December 31, 2012," confirmed president Andres Sanchez.

The player himself admitted he was more than happy to remain with Corinthians.

"In 2012 I will be just 22-years-old, and that is not a high age really," he told Gazeta Esportiva.

"I have always spoken about fulfilling my contract with Corinthians and I have the same thoughts now."

Big money

Sanchez also revealed that any club wanting to sign Lulinha would have to pay the price of nearly £20million which could put off Chelsea who were believed to be considering bidding closer to £5million.

"Now to take him off Corinthians, the interested club would have to pay 50 million American dollars (£24million), and the player has 25 per cent of his rights" added Sanchez.

Sanchez was speaking as he also confirmed Corinthians' new coach as Gremio's Mano Menezes - following their relegation from the Brazilian top-flight.

Now a host of Corinthians' top players such as highly-rated goalkeeper Felipe, defender Kadu, striker Wilson and most notably Lulinha have been strongly linked with moves to Europe.

And Sanchez insisted he only wants players who want to help his side back into the top-flight.

"I want players with desire to be here," he insisted.

"Many players will leave and others will arrive, the team will be strong."