Kleberson has lifted the lid on his move to Manchester United.

The 40-year-old has admitted it was a conversation he had with fellow countryman and 2005 Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldinho which convinced him to join The Red Devils.

Speaking to FourFourTwo magazine, he said: “There were two clubs interested in signing me: Manchester United and Leeds.

“It was an easy choice, but there's a funny story about it, too. When [Manchester] United's interest in me was confirmed, I was with the national team in France for the FIFA Confederations Cup.

“I can remember it clearly: I was with Ronaldinho and his brother/agent, Assis. Ronaldinho said, 'They want to sign both of us' and I said, 'OK, let's go, then!'"

However, as Man United fans will know, Ronaldinho never arrived at Old Trafford, something Kleberson has still not forgotten 16 years on.

“I was so glad that he would be coming with me," he added.

"I went back to Brazil and kept negotiating with United, but then Ronaldinho fooled me and went to play in the warm weather at Barcelona! He sent me to Manchester.

"That's a joke between us until today. He knows that he owes me one."