Cruzeiro confirm Paulinho interest

Cruzeiro sporting director Alexandre Mattos has revealed that the club are interested in signing Brazil international Paulinho in the New Year.

Paulinho has been a fringe player at Spurs under manager Mauricio Pochettino and recent reports have linked him with a temporary move away from White Hart Lane.

Mattos has admitted that the Brazilian could favour a switch back to his nation with Cruzeiro during the winter transfer window.

"If Paulinho has the possibility to leave, all players first think of Cruzeiro," He said.

"Regardless of the bond with another club, such as Corinthians, I'm sure he would be interested in Cruzeiro.

Inter Milan have also been linked with the player's services.