Cicinho to Old Trafford?

By David Hobbs
August 11 2005

Brazilian international Cicinho has reportedly landed in Manchester from Sao Paulo this morning with agent Juliano Leonel to discuss personal terms with Manchester United.

Ruud van Nistelrooy has reiterated his intentions to stay at Old Trafford despite tempting links to La Liga giants Barcelona and Real

This transfer revelation comes as a surprise to everyone, who expected the Red Devils to be concentrated on signing Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich or Real Madrid misfit Michael Owen.

The 25-year-old right-back is a Brazil international who qualifies for a work permit, courtesy of his Italian grandfather.

Believed to be worth £5 - £8 million, Cicinho is a versatile player who can operate at right-back or at the right-hand side of midfield with a push.

Many fans have expressed their concern at the lack of transfer activity at Old Trafford this summer after just two first-team arrivals - Edwin van der Sar and Park Ji Sung.

Sao Paulo have a good friendship with United and are one of many feeder clubs United have linked up with.

Who is Cicinho?

Cicinho, full name Cicero Joao de Cezare, has won six caps for Brazil and impressed in the recent Confederations Cup. Born in Pradopolis, Brazil, the 25-year-old moved to Sao Paulo from Atletico Mineiro in 2003. He is a quick, skillful full-back with an eye for goal.

He would become the 2nd Brazilian to represent the Red Devils after Kleberson moved to Besiktas earlier this week (not counting Alan Brazil!)

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]