BASINGSTOKE Town have launched an audacious bid to sign Brazilian star Ronaldinho.

The 34-year-old, whose previous clubs include Barcelona and AC Milan, is currently a free agent after leaving Atletico Mineiro in his homeland.

Representatives from Town have been in contact with Ronaldinho’s brother, Roberto De Assis, who also acts as the player’s agent, offering him a contract at The Soccer AM Stadium. Flights to England and accommodation are thought to be included as part of the package.

Simon Hood, Basingstoke Town’s marketing director, said: “Discussions have been had, and there is an offer on the table. Now it is up to Ronaldinho to decide whether he wants to take us up on it.

“He is on a free transfer and if he wants to get into English football, I cannot think of a better way to do that than by signing for Basingstoke Town.”

Two other English clubs are reported to have made bids to sign the forward, who has also attracted interest from Indian teams.

Ronaldinho scored 33 goals in 97 appearances for Brazil and is best known in this country for scoring the goal that knocked England out of the 2002 World Cup, lobbing David Seaman with a long-range free-kick.