There's usually ample reason to mistrust the Brazilian media when it comes to soccer – the bigger the lie, the bigger the page views. So they tend to tell some whoppers.
But this one seems to have some truth to it. According to globoesporte, and initially picked up Stateside by the New York Post's Brian Lewis, Juninho Pernambucano – the original Juninho, and no, we shouldn't have to use his last name – is set to sign with the Red Bulls. And in fact, it would take a "miracle" for the transaction to get derailed.
Like I said, this one seems to make some sense, and it's mostly because Juninho goes way back with new global Red Bull soccer honcho Gerard Houllier. Houllier was head coach at Lyon for a spell when Juninho was the man there, and the two reportedly have a tight relationship.
Juninho is out of contract with current club Vasco da Gama on Dec. 31, which means he could come on a free when the MLS window opens on Jan. 1.
On Jan. 30, for what it's worth, he turns 38 years old.
