PANAJI: Officials from the Chennai franchise of Indian Super League (ISL) have landed in Rome and are hoping for a meeting with former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho.
The Chennai franchise are hoping to sign the Brazilian legend, now out of contract, as their marquee player for the ISL and will have clarity on the negotiations in the next 48 hours.
Ronaldinho, 34, will take the field along with several other legends like Lionel Messi, Filippo Inzaghi and Samuel Eto'o at the Olympic stadium in Rome on Monday.
The charity tie -billed an inter-religious football match -is backed by Pope Francis and is put together by Argentina and Inter Milan legend Javier Zanetti. Argentina coach Gerardo Martino and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will put together the two teams.
"I believe there is a bright hope for Chennai. We have been in touch with Ronaldinho's brother, who is also his agent, and are hopeful we can carry forward the negotiations positively," said Prashant Agarwal, CEO of Kshatriya Sports and technical partner of the Chennai franchise.
Prashant, who helped Pune sign David Trezeguet and got another Brazilian legend, Dunga, to Kolkata, is currently in Rome and could be joined by at least one high-profile official from Chennai.
"This is a real big signing and we are doing all we possibly can to secure his services," said Prashant in a telephonic conversation with TOI.
There are several top officials, and players, who are helping Chennai secure Ronaldinho's signature. One of those players who has thrown his might, and connections, behind the Chennai franchise is Inter Milan legend Javier Zanetti. Kshatriya Sports has a tie-up with Inter Milan and the former European champions are likely to be part of the Chennai team.