Doyle confirms Zinha interest

San Jose Earthquakes G.M. John Doyle confirmed that the Quakes had begun their pursuit of Mexican international midfielder Antonio “Zinha” Naelson.

Doyle also stated at practice on Tuesday that the buzz created by the news had been “blown a little bit out of proportion,” but then added that he and head coach Frank Yallop would be heading up to Seattle to take in Mexico’s friendly match with China on Wednesday, with an eye towards watching Zinha play and gauge his interest.

“We’re going to have a cup of coffee with him and just say hi and just explore things” said Doyle.

Doyle added that should San Jose succeed in landing the Toluca attacker, he would likely play as a second striker, and not as a midfielder. It’s also clear that Zinha would count as the Quakes’ Designated Player.

“Lew Wolff has always said ‘Hey, if you guys want [a DP] and we need one, then we’ll get one,’” said Doyle. “But Frank and I want to make sure it’s the right guy.”