Manchester United are optimistic of completing a deal to sign Thiago Alcantara from FC Barcelona quickly.
There have been a number of positive developments over the last few days that have renewed the Red Devils’ confidence of the transfer going through, and a Manchester United source told ESPN that it was “very close.”
The 22 year-old midfielder has a clause in his contract at FC Barcelona that states he can leave for a reduced price if he fails to play a certain amount of minutes, and that is the reason his minimum release fee this summer is a mere £17m, with the Daily Express previously reporting that Man Utd have already made the necessary bid.
Thiago has requested that a similar release clause be added to his Manchester United contract, with the player still uncertain that he will receive regular first team football at Old Trafford, but it appears that David Moyes is willing to give him the assurances he needs.
Manchester United have required a player to control the midfield for a number of years, with Michael Carrick a decent holder but seemingly unable to stamp his authority on the biggest matches.
Young Spain international Thiago Alcantara, who despite three full international appearances captained his country’s U21 side to UEFA European Under-21 Championship victory last month, could be that man.
[Fanatix]