Transfer news: Corinthians could sell Alexandre Pato after striker linked with Arsenal and Tottenham

Alexandre Pato: Corinthians striker could be sold in January

Pato only joined Corinthians in January this year after spending five-and-a-half seasons with Italian giants AC Milan.

Speculation surfaced that Tottenham Hotspur tried to sign the Brazil international in the summer, with Pato claiming he rejected a move to White Hart Lane.

Recent reports have suggested that Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas is planning a fresh approach for the 24-year-old, while north London rivals Arsenal have also been linked with a bid.

De Andrade does not expect to sell the former Internacional youngster to another Brazilian club, but is open to the prospect of cashing in on Pato in the New Year.

"Considering his value, I think it's hard that he moves to another Brazilian club," De Andrade told Radio Bandeirantes.

"If those two clubs (Arsenal and Tottenham) are interested in Pato, we don't rule out selling him in the winter transfer market."

Speaking earlier this week, Pato discussed Spurs' reported interest in a deal, just a few months after his £12.2million move to Corinthians.

"Tottenham had called Corinthians to ask for my transfer," Pato was quoted as telling Brazilian TV station SporTV.

"I sat at the table with the club and my agent and I decided I wanted to stay."

Pato's performances for Corinthians resulted in a recall to Luiz Felipe Scolari's national side for the recent friendlies against Portugal and Australia.