Cavalieri's agent Juninho Parmigiani is quoted as saying that, apart from some details, the deal is practically done. " We will conclude everything tomorrow," he is quoted as saying. "He's already had the necessary medical examinations, talked with some of his new team-mates and has been impressed by what Rafael Benitez had to say to him."

Toninho Celilio, sports manager at Palmeiras, also confirmed that a deal is imminent "I spoke to him today. He has completed the examinations and is very happy. There are some clauses still being discussed but nothing that can block the deal."

No transfer fee has been mentioned as yet, although a figure of £3 million has been mentioned