Banned Striker Nicolas Anelka Set For Footballing Return With Brazilian Outfit Atletico Mineiro

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Le Sulk could team up with Ronaldino with Mineiro.

Former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has confirmed that he could be on his way back to football after holding talks with Brazilian giants Atletico Mineiro, according to Sky Sports.

The 35-year-old was sacked last month by Premier League outfit West Bromwich Albion for gross misconduct after appearing to have quit the club via social media.

The furore came after he landed himself in hot water after celebrating a goal in December by using the controversial ‘quenelle’ gesture, which landed him a five game ban from the FA.

And Anelka has hinted that he has already set the wheels in motion over a return, though he admits that he is not likely to have anything in place before next season.

“I am not specifically looking for a club but I am receiving offers and the least I can do is check them,” he told French newspaper Metro.

“I haven’t decided anything yet. My contract with WBA officially ended on 29 March and bar a miracle, there won’t be any new challenge before the next season starts, be it in Europe or in a exotic country.

“I want to play football like when I was young, connect myself again with the love for the game of my debut.”

Reports in Brazil have said that Mineiro are leading the chase, and their director of football Eduardo Maluf refused to deny their interest.

“As I handle all negotiations, I would rather not talk about it, so I won’t confirm it but I won’t deny it either,” he told O Tempo.

However, Atletico Mineiro president Alexandre Kalil says the club can’t afford him.

He told Globo Esporte: “Anelka is a top European football player, with a high salary and we can’t afford to pay that.”