28 Mar Western United fail in audacious play for former Milan star

Western United has failed in its attempts to sign Brazilian Alexandre Pato as their second international marquee, according to Fox Sports.

The report states Pato’s agent held talks with the A-League newcomers about a potential move, but he instead returned home to play for Sao Paolo.

Director of Football Steve Horvat says they are looking to add another high-class marquee to their squad ahead of the club’s inaugural A-League season.

“We will continue to look for a quality second marquee to complement our signing of Greek international Panagiotis Kone," Horvat said.

"We want to bring quality and excitement to the fans of Western United and football fans across Australia.”

Capped 27 times for Brazil, the 29-year-old striker burst onto the scene for Italian giants AC Milan in 2007 before a string of hamstring injuries decimated his once promising career.

He has spent the last two years playing for Chinese club Tianjin Quanjian, scoring 36 goals in 60 appearances.