体坛英语新闻：Palmeiras signs fullback Heleno, midfielder Cicinho

RIO DE JANEIRO, Jan. 13 (Xinhua) -- Failing to acquire Ronaldinho Gaucho, Palmeiras on Thursday announced the signing of two new reinforcements, fullback Thiago Heleno and midfielder Alex Sandro Mendonca dos Santos, also known as Cicinho.

After a disappointing stay with Corinthians, 22-year-old Thiago Heleno was given a new chance with Palmeiras. The player signed a two-year contract and has already begun to practise with the rest of the players.

The 24-year-old Cicinho successfully passed a routine physical exam and was immediately signed for the entire 2011 season off a loan from Oeste. The athlete caught the attention of multiple clubs for his performance with Santo Andre last season.

The team will begin the 2011 Sao Paulo state championship on Jan. 15 at home against Botafogo-SP.