MIDDLESBROUGH yesterday beat the 5pm transfer deadline by an hour to snap up Brazilian midfielder Ricardinho under freedom of contract from Sao Paulo.

The 27-year-old, a member of his country's World Cup-winning squad in 2002, has signed until the end of the season in a deal that mirrors Boro's move for fellow Brazilian midfielder Doriva on deadline day last year.

Northern Echo Sport revealed 18 months ago how Ricardinho had come to the attention of Boro manager Steve McClaren when Juninho suffered a cruciate injury only four days after completing his £3.8m return from Atletico Madrid.

Ricardinho, who twice came on as a substitute for Juninho during Brazil's glorious Far-East campaign, was offered to Boro as a replacement. Leeds, then managed by former Riverside coach Terry Venables, and Tottenham were also linked with £3m moves for the ex-Corinthians star.

McClaren said at the time: "Ricardinho is being touted around, but we're not interested.''

However, he was yesterday delighted to strengthen his midfield after Ricardinho arrived for talks and agreed terms before setting his sights on a long-term future at the Riverside.

With George Boateng suspended for Saturday's home game against Blackburn, Ricardinho could come into contention if he proves his fitness. McClaren said: "He's out of contract and it's just a case of us needing a bit of cover in midfield.

"I've seen him and he's got a good pedigree. It's a bit like the Doriva deal we did at the 11th hour on deadline day last year. I hope he's as successful as Doriva has been for us.

"There was a bit of interest in him after the World Cup, I think he was going to Leeds for around £3m, but it fell through. He was mentioned to me after the World Cup.''

Boro signed Doriva from Spanish side Celta Vigo in an initial loan deal on the recommendation of Juninho, and McClaren confirmed: "Ricardinho is another who comes well recommended by Juninho.''

Ricardinho said: "I spoke to Juninho and Doriva and they have only said good things about the place. The manager has told me I will get my chance, but I will have to work for it.

"I need five or six days' training to get my fitness to the right level, but I hope I will be available for Saturday.''

Ricardinho, who made three substitute appearances during the World Cup, has ten caps. He scored four goals in 39 games for Sao Paulo, the club from whom Boro first signed Juninho for £4.75m in October 1995, and also had a spell with Bordeaux.

But his ambition since the World Cup has been to play in England. He said: "I have been looking to play here for two years, so this is a very exciting challenge.

"Although my contract is only to the end of the season, I hope to do enough to earn one beyond then."

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