Aimar linked with move to Uruguay

Benfica star Pablo Aimar could be in line for a surprise move to Uruguay.

Reports from the South American country suggest the Apertura champions are keen to add Aimar for 2012.

Bolso coach Marcelo Gallardo has been entrusted with convincing the Argentine of the benefits of moving to Montevideo, according to El Pais.

Aimar’s contract expires in June and it is believed that Benfica are unlikely to renew it for another season.

Nacional would make the 32-year-old their marquee signing in the January transfer window, concentrating their economic resources in order to convince the Portuguese club to end their link with the Argentine six months early.

The club would also bet on the player’s close relationship with Gallardo – the pair were team-mates at River Plate before Aimar moved to Europe – as well as the presence of fellow Millo old boy Diego Placente and the promise of Copa Libertadores football in the coming season to tempt him to Montevideo.

Pablo has previously said he wanted to return to South America to play for first club River Plate, although the proximity of the Uruguayan capital to Buenos Aires would be a further incentive if the Nacional B club do not make an offer.

The playmaker also represented Valencia and Zaragoza in Europe and has made 52 appearances for Argentina.