Atletico Madrid have started the process to see Miranda granted a Spanish passport, it has been reported.
AS says that Atletico want to free up a slot for a non-EU player and Miranda qualifies for Spanish citizenship – indeed, the Brazil international met the criteria two years ago.
There is though no chance of Miranda following in the footsteps of compatriot and club colleague Diego Costa and swapping Brazil for Spain as Miranda’s caps for the South Americans have come in competitive games.
Costa only appeared for Brazil in friendlies and thus was able to change allegiance, making his Spain debut against Italy – having played against the same opposition in his first Brazil appearance.
Miranda’s attempt to get a Spanish passport has also raised the possibility of a move away from Vicente Calderon, AS adds.
Manchester United are said to be interested in the centre-back as a replacement for Nemanja Vidic, who is to join Inter at the end of the season.
Miranda would be free to join United without requiring a work permit should he get his Spanish passport.
Atletico are however unwilling to sell their defensive lynchpin and his contract, which currently runs until 2016, could be improved further.
Despite playing regularly for Atletico, who have the best defensive record in La Liga, Miranda is not expected to be part of the Brazil squad for the summer’s World Cup.
