Ronaldinho will return to Brazil after signing a new deal with Brazilian team Flamengo.

Former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho has signed a four-year contract with Flamengo, the Brazilian club said.

“Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, or simply Ronaldinho Gaucho, will wear the Flamengo shirt,” said Flamengo on their website (www.flamengo.com.br).

Ronaldinho was last week given permission by AC Milan to seek a move home to Brazil after he failed to hold down his place with the Serie A team. On Saturday, the Italian club’s vice-president Adriano Galliani said the two clubs had reached an agreement.

The 30-year-old, who had also been chased by Gremio, the club where he was raised, and Palmeiras, was overlooked by Brazil squad for the World Cup last year but is still hoping to make the squad in 2014.