Newcastle enter Rivaldo race

Bobby Robson has always been a huge fan of the player and tried to prise him away from Camp Nou only a few months ago.

Now, according to sources in Brazil, Newcastle have made contact with Rivaldo's representatives and have offered him a mind-blowing deal that equates to £150,000 per-week.

Newcastle are thought to have put together a package of $12.6 million (£7.9 million), although it is thought that the length of contract could be where the North East club fail to meet the player's expectations.

Milan have seemingly offered a similar deal to Newcastle, but are known to have given him a three-year deal - which is something the St James' Park finances cannot stretch to.

However, Newcastle - like Atletico Madrid - are still hopeful that Rivaldo will give their offer some serious thought.

Atletico sporting director Paulo Futre insists that they will keep trying to sign him until he decides where his future lies.

Milan's Adriano Galliani confirmed on Wednesday that his club were negotiating with the World Cup winner and hoped to strike a deal with the former Barcelona star.

Rivaldo, though, is keeping his options open and Atletico have stated that they are also in talks with the player.

"I began to think about the bid seriously on Friday evening," explained Futre.

"I spoke with our president and then on Monday I met with the player's agents and left them with an offer on the table.

"We are not as rich as Milan, but we are richer in other ways and Rivaldo must know that he will not be valued as much as he would be here.

"I have spoken to him about ten or fifteen times with Rivaldo and he has received me very well, but we just have to respect the decision he makes.

"He will listen to offers, which is normal. As long as I see that Rivaldo has not signed for Milan, I will continue dreaming."