Zidane Back From US To Settle �48m Real Deal
Sunday 8th July 2001
Zinedine Zidane returned from holiday on Sunday to finalise his world-record �48 million move from Juventus to Real Madrid. "The negotiations between the two clubs are now at a very advanced stage," explained the midfielder's brother Farid.
Following a break in the United States, Zidane will sit down to discuss personal terms with Real president Florentino Perez.
Farid highlighted the role of Perez in the deal. "I believe that Zizou chose Real Madrid ahead of Barcelona because of the president of Real," the Frenchman declared.
"He is a great leader who secured the signing of Luis Figo last season and now wants to do the same with Zinedine."
Farid stressed that personal terms were still to be agreed. "Zinedine has the last word on whether he moves," he said. "But to play in Spain after five years in Italian football would be a great opportunity.
"To play in three leagues, including the French, with great history would be an honour for him.
"I am sure that the middle of the field will work very well with Zinedine and Figo, along with the other great players they have there like Raul, Roberto Carlos and Fernando Morientes."
