Jared Borgetti is set to sign for Cruz Azul ahead of the 2007 Clausura season.

The former Bolton Wanderers striker, who spent the second half of 2006 playing at Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia, has revealed he has agreed a deal and is ready to sign.

The veteran Mexico international also insisted the return to his homeland was not a step backwards in his career.

"If it is football, I don't care where it is," Borgetti told Mediotiempo.com. "If I come back it's because I want to be in Mexico. I am happy."

Cruz Azul are due to travel to the United States next month to take part in the Interliga tournament.

The competition will see eight Mexican teams fight it out for two berths at next year's Copa Libertadores, a key challenge which tempted Borgetti to return.

"Of course the things this club has ahead are important," he said. "Obviously, the most important thing is to fight for a title, win the Interliga and then the Copa Libertadores, but the Interliga is the first obstacle."

Cruz Azul make their first Interliga appearance against Necaxa in Houston on January 3, and will also play alongside Monterrey and Tigres in Group A.

The 33-year-old considers himself fit and ready to take part in that match.

"I don't expect that to be difficult. I don't think I'll take a long time to get used to the team's rhythm."

Borgetti is expected to be unveiled on Friday at Cruz Azul, his fourth Mexican club having already played for Santos Laguna, Culiacan and Pachuca.