TRANSFER GOSSIP

Last updated : 30 April 2003 By Editor

Masters of the rumour Planet Football report that United are closing in on the signing of Brazilian defender Athirson.

The Premiership side are reported to have agreed a £4.5 million fee for the left back with Juventus. Athirson is currently on loan at Flamengo from Juventus, but his loan deal expires in June. Flamengo are keen to keep the 26-year-old, but are unable to match United's bid for the player according to Flamengo president Helio Ferraz.

"He will definitely return to Juventus who will then sell him onto Manchester United," said
Ferraz.

"The English have offered Juventus £4.5m and we can't possibly offer a similar amount of
money.

"We can't compete with United on a financial basis. That is why he will leave here and join the Old Trafford club."