The already international Dallas Mavericks could soon be adding a new flavor to the mix according to Eddie Sefko of the Dallas Morning News.

According to Sefko Antoine Rigaudeau, a 6-7 guard regarded as one of the best shooters in Europe, could be close to signing with the Mavs, a source close to the team said.

The Frenchman is currently under contract to Virtus Bologna for $3M that runs through the 2003-04 season, but the agent for the Frenchman apparently has been negotiating a buyout of that deal that would allow him to join the Mavs.

Marco Madrigali, president of the Virtus Bologna team, has agreed to the buyout, according to Rigaudeau's New York-based agent, Kenny Grant. The Mavs could contribute $350,000 to the buyout, according to NBA rules.

The Mavericks do not own the rights to Rigaudeau, meaning that any NBA team could sign the talented youngster.  Dallas remains tight lipped on their plans.

"We have nothing to report at this time, so au revoir," said president Donnie Nelson.