Paulo Rink, Lucio and Giovanne Elber are just a few Brazilians plying their trade in Germany and this trend is set to continue with Marcelinho and Franca.
Dortmund are prepared to pay a £6.7 million figure for Sao Paulo striker Franca (Pictured) who admitted: "I am at the peak of my value now.
"I have never disguised my desire to play in Europe and I believe that at 25 it is a good time to start my European adventure."
The Brazilian international's contract expires in 2002 but Sao Paulo are likely to cash in rather than risk losing the player for a nominal fee.
Berlin manager Jurgen Rober is close to sealing a deal for 26-year-old attacking midfielder Marcelinho with the player confirming: "I can't keep it in any longer. I have been sold to Germany.
"At the beginning of July I will begin with my new employers Berlin."
The Gremio Porta Alegre star will cost around £4.5 million and is due to sign a four-year contract with the capital club.
Marcelinho has some experience of European football having spent part of last season on-loan at French club Marseille.
