Cruzeiro sporting director Alexandre Mattos has confirmed that the club are interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho.
The Brazilian international is widely expected to leave White Hart Lane in January after struggling to hold down a first-team spot this season.
A number of clubs have been linked with a move, but Mattos is confident that Cruzeiro would appeal to the 26-year-old.
"If Paulinho has the possibility to leave, all players first think of Cruzeiro," Mattos told Radio Itatiaia.
"Regardless of the bond with another club, such as Corinthians, I'm sure he would be interested in Cruzeiro.
"The scenario could work with a loan - agents have already put this to several clubs in Brazil, in fact. Tottenham have not yet officially offered the player but we will await their stance."
Inter Milan have also been credited with an interest.
