Palmeiras manager Toninho Cecilio revealed the 32-year-old has been released by Spanish side Villarreal and will return to his homeland.

"We reached a definitive contract for two years," Cecilio said. "He has to complete some administration proceedings with Villarreal tomorrow and undergo the physical examination in Palmeiras on Friday."

The 2002 World Cup winner began his career with Sao Paulo in 1994 and joined Lyon six years later before spells at Barcelona and Villarreal, where he made only two appearances.

"Now I need to register him with the FA (Brazilian Football Federation) so we can include him on the Copa Libertadores list," Cecilio added.

Edmilson revealed the ambition of Palmeiras and the chance to be coached by Wanderley Luxemburgo persuaded him to return home.

"I am very happy," he said. "After 10 years in Europe I decided to return to Brazil because of the serious long-term project that Palmeiras have in mind.

"That made the difference for me. Besides, it is going to be a pleasure to work with Wanderley Luxemburgo, who I deeply respect and is a winner as a coach.

"I am not a 20-year-old boy any more, but I am not afraid of facing this challenge.

"Besides, my aim is to win the (Campeonato) Brasileiro and the (Copa) Libertadores - which I have never won until now - and also return to the national squad. I have ambitious plans," he added on globoesporte.com.