Brazilian club Corinthians have announced that they will formally introduce their newest player on January 4th.  Roberto Carlos, who is nearing his last match with Fenerbahçe, is set to join the club right after the beginning of the new year, according to a statement on the club's website Tuesday.

Corinthians released a statement Tuesday via the club website stating that Roberto Carlos will be introduced at a press conference on January 4th.  The Brazilian defender reportedly reached a deal with Fener administration this week that will allow him to terminate his contract early to join Corinthians.

Carlos issued a statement over the weekend stating that this Thursday's UEFA Europa League match against FC Sheriff will be his last.  The defender is suspended for this weekend's Trabzonspor match due to an accumulation of yellow cards.  However, it is possible that Carlos will play next weekend against Altay - making that his final match with the Yellow Canaries. 

Corinthians will announce Carlos at 11:30 AM on the morning of January 4th, with a ceremony to take place at São Jorge Park.  The club has already begun printing shirts of the star as well, as shown above.

Rumours began circulating earlier this week that Carlos could shun the Brazilian club and return to Real Madrid, but that possibility seems to have been rejected by the Spanish club.  Carlos told reporters "I played a wonderful role in Real Madrid history, but now it's better for me to play in Brazil.  Playing for Corinthians is one way for me to complete my career," he said. 

(photo courtesy of Corinthians Football Club)