FIFA World Cup 2014: Guillermo Ochoa, from free agent to million dollar baby

Fortaleza: Guillermo Ochoa is effectively a free agent, but the queue of clubs hoping to acquire the goalkeeper’s services will have lengthened after his exceptional performance in helping Mexico hold Brazil to a 0-0 draw in the World Cup.

Spanish giant Real Madrid is being talked about in football circles as well as the social media as the baby-faced player’s new address even as other clubs in England have sat up and taken notice.

“It was the best game of my life,” said Ochoa, 28, after he produced several stunning stops to frustrate Brazil.Ochoa, nicknamed ‘Memo’, went to each of the last two World Cups as a back-up and his place in the Mexico side this year was far from assured heading into the tournament.

For now Ochoa, who turns 29 on July 13, the day of the World Cup final, is focused only on Mexico, but his future at club level remains to be resolved.

He has spent the last three years with Ajaccio in France’s Ligue 1, and his mere presence there has increased the marketability of the French top flight abroad Ajaccio’s games have been broadcast live internationally almost every weekend during his time there.

With his contract expiring, he is seeking a new challenge elsewhere, although he has not ruled out staying in France, where Marseille have been linked with an approach. They may now face competition, including wealthier clubs in England.

Former United States international Brad Friedel was impressed. “It was not a bad time to play well. He won’t have a difficult time getting a contract,” Friedel said.