Newcastle’s hopes of signing World Cup winner Kleberson from Atletico Paranaense look to have vanished after talks between the two clubs broke down.
Atletico president Mario Celso Petraglia confirmed that the initial stumbling block between the parties was the size of the fee for the 23-year-old midfielder.
“Some Newcastlerepresentatives came to visit us, but they made such a short offer that the meeting didn’t last long,” said Petraglia.
“They quickly returned to England,” he added.
“Newcastle came here with a couple of million US dollars and thought they could get any player,” said Petraglia.
“They thought Brazilian football is in bankruptcy and on sale.
“We have until 31 January to find a team for Kleberson. And if we don’t find one then he will stay in Atletico Paranaense for at least one more season.”
Kleberson was also linked with a move to Leeds, but the cash-strapped Premier League club were unable to raise sufficient funds to mount a serious bid.
