mark hughes
Stoke City are reported to be keen on signing Livorno's Paulinho to add firepower to Mark Hughes' squad Reuters

Stoke City are keen on signing Livorno Forward Paulinho, according to the latter's club president, Aldo Spinelli.

The 28-year-old Brazilian contributed 15 goals and 6 assists in the Serie A for the Amaranto, but, unfortunately failed to keep them in the top-flight following a 20th place finish.

However, the Potters are not without a rival as Abu Dhabi club Al Jazira have also expressed their desire to secure the services of the former Juventude man.

"Al Jazira have already spoken with Paulinho, but Stoke City also want him and there are also a couple of other English clubs" Spinelli told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"We will take the decision which is best for everyone together."

"What I can say is that the negotiations (with AL Jazira) have started and in the coming hours we will know more about this, with everything still open, and talk to the player to work out the best opportunity."

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