The reason Pedrinho's move to Real Madrid broke down

Fluminense sporting director Paulo Angioni has revealed in Lance that Real Madrid were close to signing Pedro Guilherme, better known as Pedrinho. The European champions offered the money the Brazilian club wanted, but a knee injury put the brakes on the operation.  

Madrid have been busy in the Brazilian market in recent years and Pedrinho, 21, was their next target. The deal was advanced, but as explained by Angioni, fitness issues led to a breakdown. 

"I think there was a plan for the possible sale of Pedro," he said. "It's obvious that the injury was a big hindrance. Not just in the transfer market, but for the team, because you lose an attacker of his quality. It's also difficult for business in the future." 

Paulo Angioni added: "It meant we had to look for other income, because the money for the transfer was, in theory, conditioned. If he didn't get injured, I think he would have been sold." 

However, Fluminense, who own 50 percent of his rights, are not shutting the door on a deal: "It could move forward again. He is young, the surgery was successful. The first phase of his recovery has surprised us. 

"He won't be out for as long as expected. That could re-open talks. He's a player with a lot of interest." 

Pedrinho has a contract with Fluminense until 2021 and his release clause is 50 million euros.