Kleberson permit clears way for United move ( 2003-08-12 09:29) (Agencies)
Manchester United expect to complete the signing of Kleberson within the next
24 hours after the Brazilian international was granted a work permit, the club
said on Monday.
United confirmed that their application to the British government's
Department of Employment for a permit for the 24-year-old World Cup winning
midfielder had been successful.
The English champions had already agreed a fee for Kleberson with Atletico
Paranaense and personal terms with the player.
United sealed the deal over three weeks ago when the Brazilian midfielder,
who was a target for Leeds United earlier this year, had a medical.
The decision means Manager Alex Ferguson can now formally complete his fourth
signing of the summer.
Kleberson will join new faces Eric Djemba Djemba, David Bellion and
goalkeeper Tim Howard at Manchester United.
The midfielder is expected to be available for United's opening premier
league game of the season against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday. He could also
figure in a friendly against Stoke City on Wednesday.
Ferguson made his move for Kleberson after selling David Beckham and learning
of Chelsea's interest in Juan Sebastian Veron earlier this summer.
"I initiated interest in Kleberson because I felt he was someone who could be
an outstanding player in the future for Manchester United," Ferguson told the
Manchester Evening News earlier this month.
"Kleberson is young and we certainly think he is one of the most progressive
young players in Brazil at the moment. He is athletic, creative and quick," he
added.
