Former Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Everton and Plymouth Argyle star set for surprise move abroad

Former Bristol City winger Yannick Bolasie is set for a surprise move to Brazil, according to social media reports.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims that Criciúma Esporte Clube have agreed to sign Bolasie on a pre-contract. A deal is in place, the details are being checked and then the 34-year-old will head to South America next week if all goes to plan. Bolasie was released from Swansea City last month after his short-term deal came to an end.

Cricuma were recently promoted to the top flight of Brazilian football and are involved in a promotion race. A move to Brazil would represent the first time that Bolasie has played his club football outside of Europe. He began his senior football career in England, and made his EFL debut for Plymouth Argyle.

Bolasie played for Bristol City from 2011 to 2012 after joining from Plymouth Argyle for an undisclosed fee. He was named the Young Player of the Year by supporter's in his debut campaign following his one goal in 24 appearances. He became an instant fan figure and had a chant which was shared with Albert Adomah.

His stay at Ashton Gate only last a season as he submitted a written transfer request and joined Crystal Palace in August 2012. Bolasie was part of the Eagles side that won the Championship play-offs in 2013, and during his five years at Selhurst Park he made 144 appearances, notching up 13 goals and 30 assists.

Bolasie was signed by Everton in August 2016 for £25m, but was allowed to leave the club permanently in 2021. He had loans at Aston Villa, as well as Anderlecht, Sporting CP and Middlesbrough. He was on the books of Turkish siode Caykur Rizespor for two seasons before his move to South Wales. He is a 50-cap DR Congo international with his last cap coming in 2022.