No dice.
Luis Enrique has lustily dismissed speculation that Manchester United may be about to lure Neymar from Camp Nou to Old Trafford.
Sparked, on Saturday, by a story in The Sun, United were linked to a £240m [€377m] move for the Brazilian striker.
Louis van Gaal cited the ever-secretive “process” when he was asked about Neymar, his side drew 0-0 with Newcastle.
Last night, a brave reporter put the question to Luis Enrique.
‘I have heard about Neymar and another club but I am not interested in the question. I don’t comment on rumours; I concentrate on performances and what is happening with my team.’
There is a likelihood that United chief executive Ed Woodward had broached the subject with Barca, during his trip to Spain, last week, but the odds of them signing the 23-year-old this summer are remote.
Chelsea’s chances of signing Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba appear more likely.
The Londoners are confident of bringing in the former Manchester United player for €75m. [The Independent]
The Blues will not finish there and will get their defensive man before the transfer window closes.
Following Sky Sports and BBC reports that Everton’s John Stones has put in an official transfer request, Chelsea will snag him but not until they stump up in excess of £35m.
Other sources close to The Toffees say Stones will be going nowhere unless they get £40m. [The Guardian]
Kevin de Bruyne looked all set for Manchester City and was even linked – like most players this summer – to United but he appears to be staying in Germany.
The Wolfsburg midfielder is now set to join Bayern Munich after Pep Guardiola gently nudged his Bavarian board of directors. [Sky Sports]
Tottenham have had a middling start to the season and Mauricio Pochettino is determined to get in at least two more signings.
Top of his list are Asier Illarramendi from Real Madrid and West Brom striker Saido Berahino, who Spurs will bid £23m for after having a £20m bid rejected. [The Mirror & The Guardian]
