Esteghlal eyes former Real Madrid midfielder

MNA – TEHRAN, Esteghlal acting president Ali Fatollahzadeh has said that they are planning to sign former Real Madrid midfielder Francisco Pavon.

“Not only Esteghlal has signed up good players for the coming season but also German coach Michael Henke will help our coaching staff to get good results in the Iran Professional League,” Fatollahzadeh said on Wednesday.

“We started our negotiations with Kuwait international midfielder Waleed Ali but have not yet reached an agreement with him. Esteghlal also is trying to sign former Real Madrid player Francisco Pavon, who currently plays for AC Arles-Avignon in France,” he added.

Esteghlal captain Farhad Majidi has not participated in Esteghlal’s training sessions during their recent preparation camp.

Esteghlal acting president said, “From now, Majidi has no problem to take part in the Esteghlal’s training sessions. He will retain his captaincy in the coming season.”

Fatollahzadeh rejected any speculation that Henke will replace Esteghlal coach Parviz Mazlumi. He said: “I don’t know from where these absurd speculations come from.”