Rising Brazilian star Paulinho has claimed that he has rejected an offer to join Serie A giants Internazionale.

The Corinthians star has decided to stay in his homeland for the sake of his career.

The 24 year-old midfielder has a number of high-profile clubs chasing his services, including AC Milan and French giants PSG.

Speculation

Paulinho told ESPN Brazil: “There’s been a lot of speculation and many lies. When there was a proposal I spoke openly,”

“I sat with my wife and showed her the proposal from Inter Milan. I actually felt shaken by the proposal, but the Corinthians board did everything they could to keep me.

“That surprised me, and affected my decision. There are times when you have to think about money, and other times you have to give up of that to favour of your career.”

Refreshing

It really is refreshing for a player to show such loyalty to a club and spurn the opportunity of such a big move. Paulinho has recently broken into the Brazil squad and is regarded as one of the best up-and-coming players in Brazil.

No doubt he will move on later on in his career, but must feel that he will develop more as footballer in his homeland.

Likely

A move to Serie A is likely in the future, but the young midfielder has also had interest from Spanish and English clubs. His strength and power in the air would probably allow him to settle in England far easier than in La Liga though.

His style of play has been compared to fellow Brazilian Sandro of Tottenham, who he is likely to play alongside for the Selacao. Although Paulinho is a defensive midfielder he also has the ability to chip in with a few goals and has scored 30 goals in his 166 career appearances so far.

I bet there is far more to come from this very level headed young man. His future may be in doubt, but his talent certainly isn’t.

Which club will sign Paulinho?