Udinese have signed defensive midfielder Willians from Flamengo paving the way for Kwadwo Asamoah's exit.
Asamoah has been linked with a move to Juventus and could seal a deal by the end of this week.
Willians' arrival at Stadio Friuli is significant to sell the Ghana midfielder to the Serie A champions Juventus.
The Brazilian, who earned the name 'Pitbull' because of his tenacity in the middle of the park, began his career with Santo Andre but has spent the past three years at Flamengo.
Willians' signing comes just under a fortnight after Udinese announced the acquisition of Caen centre-half Thomas Heurtaux.
Udinese finished third in Serie A in 2011-12, and will compete in the Champions League qualification play-off round for a second consecutive year.