Kleberson claims he was tricked into joining Man Utd by fellow Brazil international Ronaldinho – who left him hanging at Old Trafford.
The pair were both targets for the Red Devils during the summer of 2003, just a year after their World Cup-winning exploits for their country.
Sir Alex Ferguson wanted Ronaldinho from PSG, but faced competition for his signature, while Kleberson had his pick of two Premier League clubs.
“There were two clubs interested in signing me: Manchester United and Leeds,” Kleberson told FourFourTwo ( via Mail ).
(Image: Press Association)
“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. He said: ‘They want to sign both of us’ and I said, ‘OK, let’s go, then!’.
(Image: Reuters)
Kleberson then signed on the dotted line for the Red Devils in a £6.5 million switch, on the same day the club signed one Cristiano Ronaldo .
But he was not joined by Ronaldinho, who snubbed United in favour of a move to Spain.
“I was so glad that he would be coming with me,” Kleberson 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.”
Ronaldinho became a huge hit at Barca, winning numerous titles and earning the Ballon d’Or award in 2005.
Meanwhile Kleberson managed just 30 appearances for United in two seasons before being sold to Besiktas.
“That’s a joke between us until today,” Kleberson said. “He knows that he owes me one.”
