Rumours

Brazilian international defender Emerson (currently playing at Portuguesa de Desportos) is close to a move for a larger club. Several major Brazilian clubs have been after the player for more than an year, and a transfer to São Paulo, Corinthians or Palmeiras is the most probable option if he stays in Brazil. Emerson made a quite solid defence playing beside César (now in charge at French club PSG), which could indicate a move to France. According to sources close to the player the club is sounding out the possibility of a deal.

Meanwhile, it appears that striker Franca, of São Paulo, could be on the verge of a move to England. The coach of Arsenal, Arsene Wenger, was in São Paulo this week talking to directors and the player himself. It has been known for some time that Franca intends to move away from Brazil, and it seems as if England could be his destination, where the striker would meet up with his national squad teammate Silvinho.

Abel Braga is no longer coach at Vasco, having handed in his notice shortly after the teams 2 x 2 draw against Fluminense which saw them exit the Copa do Brasil. Braga says he has quit the club at the right moment, and confirmed that he has been contracted by Olympique Marseille, of France, for one year - with an option to renew for two more. He was coach of Vasco for only 23 games, but of those the team won 15, drew 5 and lost only 2. His replacement has already been named; Luiz Felipe Scolari, currently coach at Palmeiras, who will take over at Vasco after the Copa Libertadores and Paulista championship.