Corinthians confirm interest in Uruguay midfielder

Rio de Janeiro, May 17 (IANS) Corinthians have confirmed they are in talks to sign Botafogo's Uruguay international midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro.

A deal for the 25-year-old could be struck before the World Cup begins June 12, according to Corinthians' football director Ronaldo Ximenes, reports Xinhua.

"We are in talks and they will continue over the next few days," Ximenes told Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo Friday.

"I can confirm Corinthians' interest. We are looking to bring in an attacking midfielder."

Corinthians face competition for Lodeiro's signature from other clubs, including their Brazilian rivals Atletico Mineiro.

Lodeiro has made 85 first-team appearances and scored 17 goals for Botafogo since joining from Ajax in 2012.

He was this week included in Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez's provisional 25-man World Cup squad.