Zinho: We want Diego, but Riquelme is second-choice

Flamengo sporting director Zinho has told Brazilian media that the club's immediate priority is to attempt the repatriation of former Santos star Diego, with Riquelme as the club's back-up option.

Having been linked with Riquelme in the Brazilian media, Zinho has come out quickly to insist that Wolfsburg midfielder Diego is still the club's choice to take over the number ten shirt.

"We should have a decision on Diego by Monday or Tuesday," Zinho told Globo Esporte.

"Meanwhile, I will not start another negotiation, it would not be ethical. However, we have a financial limit and we are expecting a response from Wolfsburg."

Regarding Riquelme, who announced after the Copa Libertadores final that he will leave Boca Juniors, Zinho was at pains to stress that the club would be interested.

"Riquelme is a wonderful player. If Diego doesn't work out then I'd be interested, he is someone who pleases me a lot.

"I know his representative in Brazil, it's my friend Fabiano Farah. If he is interested in playing for Flamengo then we will sit down with his Argentine agent for talks.

"That said, there is no proposal or contact, but the doors are always open to a great player like Riquelme. But, there will be nothing official until after the offer for Diego.