Argentine striker Barcos re-signs with Palmeiras

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 11 (IANS):

Argentina international striker Hernan Barcos has ended speculation about his future by re-signing with Brazilian club Palmeiras until 2017.

The 28-year-old had been tipped to quit the club following its relegation to Brazil’s second tier last month, reports Xinhua.

But a salary increase and the prospect of playing in this year’s Copa Libertadores are believed to have swayed the 28-year-old to remain with the Sao Paulo outfit.

“This is the start of a new era and we are already training as hard as we can to help deliver the best results,” Barcos said in a message on the club’s website.

Barcos, who has won four international caps for Argentina, scored 28 goals in all competitions last year to provide one of the few highlights in a disappointing season for Palmeiras.

The club won the right to play in South America’s prestigious Copa Libertadores tournament by winning the Copa do Brasil in July.

Under the new deal, Barcos’ buyout clause has increased from 15 to 22 million euros.