Arturo Vidal is making no secret of where he wants to play before the Inter midfielder ends his career.
A report in Chile today said the 33-year-old intends to stay with the Nerazzurri for the remaining two years of his contract, with his entourage denying any contact with Marseille or Flamengo.
However, Vidal has clearly not ruled out a move to Brazil at some point in the future, as proven by an interview he gave to ESPN Brasil earlier today.
Speaking alongside Chile teammate Mauricio Isla, who is already at Flamengo, Vidal said (as quoted by FcInterNews.it): “I’m happy you (Isla) are wearing the most important shirt in South America.
“I hope to have the same possibility you’re having one day.”
Vidal has never hidden his affection for Flamengo, despite conflicting reports about how serious the Brazilian club’s interest is for him at the moment.
Former Juventus midfielder Isla picked up the microphone shortly after the former Barcelona midfielder and added: “Yes, Vidal has been wanting to play for Flamengo for two years now.
“He likes the fans and he likes Brazil.
“There are three players who represent Chile’s national team: him, Alexis Sanchez and Claudio Bravo.
“Arturo has had lots of off-field problems but he has never brought them onto the pitch.
“He could have a problem the day before and the day after a game and still be the best player in that match.
“There are no words to describe his career and everything Vidal did for Juventus, Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
“I think coming to Flamengo would be the culmination of an incredible career for him.
“When he comes to the Maracana he’ll like the fans even more.”
Vidal is busy at Appiano Gentile this week as he looks to recover after undergoing knee surgery two weeks ago.
He will hope to be back available when Inter return to action after the international break, with three games in nine days against Bologna, Sassuolo and Cagliari.
Vidal has made 30 appearances in all competitions for Antonio Conte’s side this season, scoring twice and providing two assists.
