United in for Cicinho?

[Seifer]

From The Daily Mirror today:

MANCHESTER UNITED are set to capture Brazilian sensation Cicinho after the defender flew into the country for talks last night.

The 25-year-old right-back was the discovery of Brazil's Confederations Cup-winning side in June.

Both AC Milan and Juventus had been tracking the South American, who has a release clause of just under £8million in his contract at Sao Paulo.

But last night it appeared the defender was heading towards Old Trafford after he jetted into Manchester on a private plane for talks with United.

Signing the full-back would be a huge coup for boss Sir Alex Ferguson as he looks to haul United back into championship contention after they finished 18 points behind Chelsea last term.

It would also be proof that the Glazer family is willing to fund Fergie heavily in the transfer market.

Cicinho, full name Cicero Joao De Cezare, had been earmarked by Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira to take over from ageing skipper Cafu next summer and Milan and Juventus were convinced they were in a two-way fight for his services.

Cicinho flew to Italy last weekend seeking to find proof that his grandfather was Italian, meaning he would qualify automatically for a European Union passport. That search is believed to have been successful, meaning that he will be able to sign for any club without the need for a work permit.

Milan and Juve believe they have been outfoxed by United, who are willing to offer more cash and a four-year deal to get their man.

Talks are expected to continue today and United are hopeful he could become their third major signing of the summer after the arrivals of Edwin Van der Sar and Korean Park Ji-Sung.

Cicinho's arrival will put a question mark over Gary Neville's automatic place in the United team, although the England right-back can also fill in at the heart of the back-line.
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