TEHRANTIMES - Alireza Nikbakht Vahedi is close to joining Esteghlal football team.

The 33-yer-old midfielder met Esteghlal General Manager Ali Fathollahzadeh on Monday and signed an internal contract with the team.

Vahedi Nikbakht will return to Esteghlal for second stint. He has played in the Tehran-based team from 1999 to 2006.

“I am happy to return to Esteghlal. I want to prove myself in Esteghlal. I am also happy Mr. Ghalenoei (head coach) has faith in me,” Vahedi Nikbakht said.

Vahedi Nikbakht has also played at Esteghlal’s arch-rival Persepolis for three years.