MUNICH, Dec 15 (SW) – Bayern Munich have begun preparations for life without Michael Ballack by signing Paraguay youngster Julio Dos Santos from Cerro Porteno.

"He is Paraguay's number 10, he can replace Ballack," said sport manager Uli Hoeness.

The Paraguayan is believed to have cost the Bundesliga giants 2 million euros.

It is more than likely that the youngster will move to Germany at the end of the season as opposed to during the January transfer window.