Kleberson on way to Old Trafford

Brazil midfielder Kleberson is on his way to England and looks set to sign for Manchester United if he passes a medical.

The World Cup winner last night left his Atletico Paranaense team-mates in Sao Paulo – where he was due to play in a Campeonato Brasileiro match tomorrow – and caught a plane to London.

Atletico Paranaense president Mario Celso Petraglia has been in England during the last week negotiating with a number of Premiership clubs but United are believed to have won the race in a deal reported to be worth £6.8m (€9.6m).

United’s official website, www.manutd.com, yesterday quoted the player as saying: “It’s a dream for me to play in England. I believe I’m ready for this challenge.

“Gilberto Silva of Arsenal talks of how well contested the matches are in the Premiership. In Brazil, the game is more based on individual skills. In England, teams play quicker and with more tactical awareness.

“All people yearn for new conquests. I have conquered everything with Atletico. I started at the club where I grew up and conquered all the challenges.

“I was champion of the Brazilian state and I won the World Cup while representing the colours of Atletico. But I believe that my next objective is Europe.”

Kleberson would be the first Brazilian to sign for United but could soon be joined by international team-mate Ronaldinho, who is on the verge of sealing a transfer to Old Trafford from Paris St Germain.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed yesterday he would not get involved in an auction with United to sign Ronaldinho.

Laporta said: “We made a major offer which is on the table at PSG and we expected an answer on Tuesday which did not arrive.

“We have given our final offer to PSG and we’re sticking with it.”

Meanwhile Spain winger Joaquin claims he has turned down the chance to fill United’s right-wing berth – which was vacated when David Beckham made his £25m (€35m) move to Real Madrid.

The Real Betis youngster was, according to his club’s official website, approached by United through them but the player declined the offer, preferring to stay with his hometown team.