Outgoing Shanghai SIPG forward Hulk in high demand

RIO DE JANEIRO - Palmeiras are among at least three Brazilian clubs interested in signing departing Shanghai SIPG forward Hulk, according to media reports in the South American country.

Hulk confirmed he would be leaving Shanghai after the Chinese side's 2-0 defeat to Vissel Kobe in the quarterfinals of the AFC Champions League on Monday.

"Today is the day to say goodbye to Shanghai SIPG, a team that made me feel at home," the 34-year-old former Brazil international said in a statement.

"I am very grateful to the fans who welcomed me. To the board and players, my thanks," he added.

According to news outlet Globoesporte, Palmeiras face competition to sign Hulk from other clubs in Brazil as well as suitors in the United States, Europe and the United Arab Emirates.

The former Porto and Zenit St Petersburg player, who has been capped 47 times for Brazil, has three children in Sao Paulo and is a lifelong supporter of Palmeiras.

He scored 76 goals in 145 matches over four-and-a-half years with Shanghai SIPG, helping the club win the Chinese Super League title in 2018 and the Chinese Super Cup last year.