Post by Taxigirl on Nov 30, 2003 10:01:36 GMT
World Cup winner Rivaldo has revealed his desire to join Chelsea after announcing his decision to quit AC Milan.
The 31-year-old has failed to secure a first-team place at the San Siro and is set to move during the January transfer window.
And the former Barcelona star is determined to make Stamford Bridge his next destination.
He told the News of the World: "I would be very happy to play for Chelsea. They have a man in charge of them who has come from outside England and he's buying the best, most exciting players in the world.
"It is as though [owner] Roman Abramovich is running an NBA all-star team. He has turned Chelsea into a side with a unique style, unlike any other team in England.
"Now I am hoping there will be a surprise in a month. It will come before January - I can tell you that."
Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani announced on Saturday Rivaldo's departure from the Serie A giants was imminent.
"It is with great sadness that I have to say that Rivaldo will leave Milan within a few days," Galliani told an Italian radio station.
Milan had agreed to release Rivaldo from his contract in September but then both the player and club had a change of heart and he decided to carry on.
But his situation with AC Milan has not improved and he has since made just a substitute appearance in the Champions League against Celta Vigo.
Galliani added: "He has been unable to find a place in the team and so without doubt he will play for another club from January."
Should Chelsea table a bid for Rivaldo, they could face competition from elsewhere in the Premiership.
Tottenham have previously tried to lure him to White Hart Lane while Liverpool have also been mentioned with signing him.
He could also return to Spain where he has played with Barcelona and Deportivo la Coruna.