Wellington Phoenix have confirmed they will not be offering midfielder Daniel a new deal.
Wellington Phoenix have confirmed they will not be offering midfielder Daniel a new deal.
But the popular Brazilian has been approached by fellow A-League club Melbourne Heart as well as a club in Singapore.
“Heart, where John Aloisi has taken over as coach, have asked if I am interested and I am sure we will talk some more,” said Daniel.
The announcement the midfielder was surplus to requirements did not come as a shock. He gave an emotional speech at the recent Phoenix awards night which hinted at his likely departure and he has been used primarily off the bench this season by coach Ricki Herbert.
While he is no longer wanted in Wellington, the 32-year-old, who spent five seasons at the Phoenix and made 106 appearances for the club, is still keen to play for New Zealand, who are also coached by Herbert.
He has remained in the New Zealand capital to complete his residency requirements.
“When my family left I had to stay another 10 days to complete my five years,” he said. “I’ve spoken to New Zealand Football and they told me FIFA have approved my application which is fantastic.
“Now it is up to Ricki whether I am picked to play but the main thing is I will be available.
“I have loved my time in Wellington and have had five fantastic years. It will be very tough to leave but hopefully I will be able to keep my New Zealand links through the All Whites.”
New Zealand have matches against El Salvador and Honduras later this month followed by next month’s Confederations Cup qualifying tournament in the Solomon Islands.
