RIO DE JANEIRO, April 8 (Xinhua) -- Former South Africa national coach Joel Santana has signed a one-year deal with Brazilian top-flight outfit Bahia.

His appointment comes less than a week after the club secured United States international winger Freddy Adu for the 2013 season.

Santana replaces Jorginho, who was sacked after Bahia's 5-1 loss to Vitoria on Sunday.

The 64-year-old has not coached since his dismissal from Brazilian giants Flamengo in July last year.

"I am grateful for this opportunity. Bahia is like my second home," said Santana, who has coached the club on three previous occasions.

Santana took charge of South Africa in 2008 but was sacked the following year after a run of eight defeats in nine matches.