Edinson Cavani is reportedly close to finalising a dream transfer to Argentine outfit Boca Juniors following his Manchester United exit.
The Uruguay international, 35, left United earlier this summer when his contract expired. He is one of the most prolific strikers of his generation, scoring more than 400 goals for club and country and representing the likes of Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain.
Cavani hasn't played domestic football in South America since joining Italian side Palmero in January 2007. Yet the veteran forward could make his long awaited return by signing for Boca, who are widely regarded as one of the biggest clubs in the region.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Cavani is on the verge of completing a move to Boca. He's held talks with a number of European clubs this summer - including Champions League semi-finalists Villarreal - but it appears his heart is set on moving to Argentina.
Cavani is said to be excited about the prospect of playing for Boca. He is expected to sign an 18-month contract, which will see him through until the end of this campaign and all of next. The Argentine football season runs from February to October.
Cavani has previously expressed his admiration for Boca. They are one of the most successful clubs in South America, winning 34 Argentine titles, six Copa Libertadores crowns and other honours. Former players include Carlos Tevez and Diego Maradona.
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Speaking in May, Cavani confirmed he'd been in touch with Boca's vice-president Juan Roman Riquelme over a potential move. Argentine playmaker Riquelme enjoyed huge success during his playing career, winning the Copa Libertadores thrice with Boca.
"There was a contact with Roman," said Cavani. "He even wrote to me, and we communicated. These are things that happen in the football environment, among colleagues.
"And, as I mentioned, it’s a great club in South America. How, as a football player, could I say that I wouldn’t want to play for a team like Boca one day? It’s like I said to you, how can I say that I wouldn’t like to play in big clubs, like some in Brazil?"
Cavani will need to find a club soon if he's to get fit ahead of this year's World Cup in Qatar. The tournament is expected to be his last for Uruguay, with long-term strike partner Luis Suarez, 35, also set to hang up his international boots.
Cavani endured a difficult two-year spell at Old Trafford. He joined United in October 2020, recovering from a slow start to score 17 goals during his debut term. That helped the Red Devils finish second in the Premier League and reach the Europa League final.
United persuaded Cavani to extend his contract for another season, only for them to sign Ronaldo. The Uruguayan was marginalised as a result, losing his No.7 shirt and making just 15 Premier League outings. His departure earlier this summer surprised few critics.
