Fergie in Portugal raid

Premier League / Editor / 31 May 2007 / Leave a Comment

Sir Alex Ferguson has wasted little time in strengthening his Manchester United squad with the news that he has agreed deals for a double swoop from Portugal.

FC Porto's Brazilian star Anderson looks set to move to Old Trafford, along with Nani from Sporting Lisbon, and the Red Devils are already favourites to retain their title next season - but only just.

Fergie's men trade as the 2.66 favourites to win the Premiership next term with Chelsea on offer at 2.7 and punters cannot see past the 'big two' for the Premier League title.

Anderson, 19, has agreed to join the Premiership champions from the team he helped win the Portuguese title this year and says he cannot wait to kick-off his new career in England.

"Manchester is the club of my dreams," he said. "Gremio was my first club, but soon I followed to Porto - it still has a big place in my heart.

"But the fact is I have dreamed of playing for Manchester and now that is realised."

United fans will get their next chance to see Anderson for Brazil in this summer's Copa America and, although he is not in the squad for the friendly against England, there are no work permit worries.

In a developing market Brazil are second favourites for the Copa America and trade at 2.6, behind Argentina (2.5).

Anderson, who has been likened to compatriot Ronaldinho because of his strength and balance on the ball, is looking forward to lining up with the stars on show in the north west.

He added: "I am prepared for everything - my motivation is great and the fact you can be in the same team as a great player as Cristiano Ronaldo as well as (Wayne) Rooney and many others, and to be trained by Alex Ferguson is just something you could only imagine - but now I will realise this."