ISL: Ronaldinho keeps Chennai waiting

PANAJI: The Chennai franchise of the Indian Super League is waiting for a word from Ronaldinho's agent and brother, Roberto de Assis, to carry forward an almost implausible dream of playing in India.
Neither owners of the Chennai franchise - Abhishek Bachchan, Asian Paints - or technical partner Play On Skills have directly established contact with Ex-Barcelona and Brazil star Ronaldinho. But, according to sources, another international player-management agency is in the forefront of the negotiations, even appointing a Portuguese interpreter for smooth talks.
"We are waiting to hear from Ronaldinho's brother if he is willing to come to India for advanced negotiations or if someone from here needs to rush to Brazil. That will happen only if there is confirmed interest," said the source.
When contacted by TOI, Ronaldinho's brother who is also his agent, dodged the India query. "I cannot say anything about this. I am catching a flight at the moment. We could speak sometime later," Roberto de Assis, told TOI.
The Chennai franchise first made contact with Ronaldinho's agent last week and, coincidentally, it came on the eve of breakdown in talks with Brazilian club Palmeiras, who wanted to sign the two-time World Player of the Year as part of their centenary celebrations.
The Chennai franchise, it is learnt, would have no hesitation in paying almost $3 million (approx. 18 crore) for the former Barcelona star for a two-year contract - only for the ISL - and have also agreed on paying a ten percent signing fee, besides a major share of income from sponsors signed after his arrival.
Sources said the newest franchise should brace themselves for a minimum of $2 million (Rs 12 crore) a year if they are to entertain any hopes of landing the magician footballer. Chennai, though, are not alone in jostling for Ronaldinho's services.