The former World Player of the Year claimed he made the correct decision to join Barcelona from Paris St Germain in 2003 when Manchester United were interested.

He said: "Before I moved to Barcelona I had the chance to go to Manchester United but I made a good decision and I am happy to be here."

However, the 27-year-old Brazilian looked nonplussed at the suggestion he had been offered the chance to join St Mirren after he left Brazilian side Gremio in 2001.

He said: "It was a long time ago and I can't exactly remember what was happening then but there were a lot of clubs interested in taking me on loan."