By Matthew Jones
June 10 2002

Newcastle and Fulham are leading the race to bring former 'Boro star Juninho back to the Premiership. The Brazil midfielder, currently starring in the World Cup, spent last season in his homeland on loan at Flamengo and has been constantly linked with a permanent move away from Atletico Madrid. Newcastle and Fulham are leading the race to bring former Middlesbrough star Juninho back to the Premiership, according to reports in Spain.
The Brazil midfielder, currently starring in the World Cup, spent last season in his homeland on loan at Flamengo and has been constantly linked with a permanent move away from Atletico Madrid.

The fallen giants of Spanish football have secured promotion back to La Liga for next season and could yet try to persuade the diminutive playmaker to stay with them.

But Juninho's current contract expires in July and although there is the option of another year's extension, the Brazilian star is reported to be keen on a return to England.

Pundits in the Spanish capital predict Juninho will move back to the Premiership, with recent quotes attributed to him suggesting that is his favoured option.

The 29-year-old Sao Paolo-born midfielder has proven he is back to his best in the World Cup after losing some of his form when he broke his leg four years ago.

The Magpies reportedly face a fight with Jean Tigana's Fulham to land the player but the lure of the Champions League would work in Bobby Robson's favour.

Newcastle have also been linked with Aston Villa star Lee Hendrie.