Brazil star 'to become Spanish'
One of the world's top footballers, Brazilian striker Ronaldinho, has applied for Spanish citizenship.
The 26-year-old, who personally presented documents to a court in Barcelona, is expected to receive citizenship early next year.
This means that he will be able to play for FC Barcelona as an EU player, leaving room for another player from outside the EU in the squad.
Spanish rules permit only three non-EU members in any club squad.
Ronaldinho, who joined Barcelona in 2003 from French club Paris Saint Germain, helped the club win the Champions League title last year.
Last month, his fellow professionals voted him FifPro's player of the year for the second successive season.
