The Pedro deal may get across the line under its own steam but a big striker swoop will depend on European progress.
Louis van Gaal has described United’s two Champions League playoff matches, against Club Brugge, as the biggest in his time at the club.
United have already spent more than €90m on summer transfers but they could dwarf that sum if they overcome the Belgian side. The first leg takes place at Old Trafford this evening while the return tie is on August 26.
Having already alerted United to his interest in moving – as reported by The Express – a deal for Thomas Muller is in the offing. It would cost United £60m (€84.5m) to get the German forward but the Premier League side would offset that against Champions League payments and bonuses.
Still, the more likely of the two transfer targets remains Pedro.
Many of this morning’s papers report on Ed Woodward’s flying visit to Barcelona, last night. However, the United chief executive had flown home without securing the Spanish international’s signature after those papers went to print.
At present, United are offering €25m plus €5m in add-ons. Barcelona want €30m up front.
It is a tedious hold-up but qualification for the Champions League group stages should see the deal done and Pedro’s scribble on a United contract. [AS]
Elsewhere, just about every newspaper in England is reporting a third Chelsea bid, of £30m, for John Stones.
Given that the champions have offered £20m, £25m and £30m in the past month, Everton would be wise to hold out until near the end of the transfer window. If Stones does move, it may well be for a fee in excess of £35m (€49.25m). [Daily Telegraph]
One of this summer’s big spenders have been Juventus.
The Bianconeri have lost Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal over the summer and are trying to get in quality players to maintain another Champions League push.
It makes perfect sense, then, for them to fling in a bid for Christian Eriksen.
The Dane was an assist machine last season and has been at it again this time out – his corner teed up Eric Dier’s goal at the weekend.
Tottenham are adamant that the Dane will not be leaving but may be inclined to listen to offers for their Argentine midfielder, Erik Lamela. [Evening Standard]
Newcastle are not going to pay £15m for Charlie Austin, leaving West Ham the favourites to bag the QPR striker.
The Magpies will sign Marseille winger Florian Thauvin, though, for £12m. [Newcastle Chronicle & The Guardian]
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