Kleberson receives work permit

Manchester United’s hopes of capturing Brazilian World Cup star Kleberson moved a step closer tonight when the midfielder was granted a work permit to play in the Barclaycard Premiership.

Red Devils boss Alex Ferguson attended the hearing which gave the green light for United to tie up the final details of the player’s move from Atletico Paranaense over the next few days.

The deal, which is believed to be costing United around £6m (€8.5m), could be concluded as early as tomorrow with the outside possibility that the midfielder could be involved in Wednesday night’s friendly with Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.

“We can confirm the work permit for Kleberson has been granted and we hope to complete the deal within the next day or so,” said a Untied spokesman this evening.