Anderson Alves da Silva looks set to replace the seriously injured Jefferson on Gold Coast United's playing list. Anderson is the older brother of Robson, who recently signed with the new A-League franchise, and will meet up with the squad in Singapore next week.

The 26-year old spent four years with top Brazilian club Flamengo and is held in high regard by United coach Miron Bleiberg.

"I watched him play when I was in Brazil, but at that time I had no room to bring another visa player," said Bleiberg.

"With Jefferson now injured we can bring him over as injury cover. He's a well-credentialed player having played for the Brazilian Under 17 team like his brother, and also the Under 20 side.

"He actually played in the final of the 1999 FIFA Under 17 World Championships in New Zealand when Australia were the opponents, the same game that Jess Vanstrattan took part in.

"He will come to us on a short-term contract and the likelihood is that he will meet up with us in Singapore or Hong Kong next week and then come back to Australia with us."