Porto president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa believes Brazil midfielder Anderson will enjoy ‘a great career’ with Manchester United.

The English champions announced yesterday that they had agreed deals ‘in principle’ to sign Anderson and winger Nani from Porto and Sporting Lisbon respectively.

Anderson, 19, has been identified as a future star of world football, but found his progress hindered by a serious knee injurylast season.

“I wish him happiness at Manchester United, he will have a great career there,” said Pinto da Costa.

“If he had stayed in Portugal we could not guarantee a similar challenge would never have happened again,”he said, referring to the tackle that saw him miss much of last season.

“I am convinced it will not happen in the Premiership. English football is tough but not wicked.”

Manchester United assistant coach Carlos Queiroz believes Anderson and Nani will form the basis of United’s next generation.

“It is a significant investment in Manchester United’s prospects for the next 10 years,” Queiroz told TVI television channel.

“It’s worth imagining a forward line with (Wayne) Rooney, (Cristiano) Ronaldo, Anderson and Nani, these are players with enormous creativity.

“It’s an attraction being able to develop their abilities. I have worked with young players many times and their potential is impressive.

“These signings mean the end of a long observation process. They are players who correspond to the club’s intentions. They are young and have plenty of potential and talent.”