'Grey' Manchester may not suit Ronaldinho, claims Silvestre

Mickael Silvestre believes Ronaldinho would fit in perfectly at Old Trafford - but may not find Manchester to his liking.

Manchester United defender Silvestre is in Paris with the France squad preparing for the Confederations Cup.

And the French capital’s top club Paris St Germain are currently trying to fend off reported interest for Ronaldinho, one of Brazil’s World Cup heroes last summer, from United and Real Madrid.

New PSG president Francis Graille and recently appointed coach Vahid Halilhodzic have repeatedly pointed out that the player is under contract.

But comments from Ronaldinho’s agent and brother, Roberto Assis, indicate the player is open to a move.

Silvestre is not sure, however, that England should be the destination.

“We, the French, had some problems getting used to Manchester,” Silvestre said. “It is not like London at all.

“Manchester is the heartland of England and for a South American it could be quite difficult.

“For example, (Juan Sebastian) Veron suffered a lot when he arrived in Manchester. He switched from sunny Rome to grey Manchester.”

Indeed, Veron has endured two difficult campaigns at Old Trafford since his switch from Lazio.

However Ronaldinho is a player who can run at opponents and is capable of changing the game with something out of the ordinary, which Silvestre feels would suit United ideally.

“Ronaldinho would be a great boost for the team,” he said. “It would be far from insignificant to have him with us because he is a talented player, capable of being a success everywhere. We also have a Continental game and I am sure he would adapt easily.”

Silvestre was less forthcoming, however, about the future of his United team-mate David Beckham.

United have accepted a provisional offer from Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta for the England captain.

But Silvestre would only add: “I have not got any information about Beckham. Sir Alex Ferguson does not take me into his confidence.”

United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez also refused to be drawn about Beckham.

“I am here to play with the France national team and I will only talk about the national team,” he said.