Skip to content

Kleberson keen on Celtic switch

BRAZILIAN midfielder Kleberson admits he is flattered by Celtic's interest in his services but Leeds United head the hunt to land the World Cup winner.

Kleberson has also attracted the attention of Roma and Bayer Leverkusen after impressing in the Far East and he is set for a £5 million move to Europe in the New Year.

Celtic have registered their willingness to lure the Atletico Paranaense man to Parkhead and Kleberson revealed he would relish the challenge of playing in the SPL.

"I don't want to say much because it's in the hands of my agent," said Kleberson. "But I am very interested in finding out more about Scotland.

"If I do go to Celtic I will give everything I have. I am learning about the rivalry with Rangers and it sounds the type of thing I'd enjoy.

"Gilberto Silva, who I speak to regularly, knew nothing about England before going there but tells me he is happy at Arsenal. He spoke well of Scotland and Scottish football. Although he doesn't have much experience of it, he has heard a lot from the former Rangers player Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

"I am a little confused. I don't know if I should be studying English, Italian, German or English with a Scottish accent. Either way, I know Rome is different from Glasgow and Leeds is different from Leverkusen.

"I can only say I am deeply honoured that Celtic are interested in me because they are a team with a great history and I hope an even greater future."

Kleberson's agent Marcel Figer admitted The Bhoys are keen to sign the midfield anchor-man but confirmed Leeds were leading the chase, despite speculation the Elland Road board are sceptical about hiring the Samba ace.

Figer said: "They (Leeds) are slightly ahead in the race because we have talked numbers with them but Celtic's interest is concrete.

"Kleberson is a World Cup winner and my priority is to find him the right club. He needs a team with plenty of ambition and organisation and Celtic meet those requirements."

Around Sky