Barca Man Hints Pedro Could Join Manchester United, Chelsea To Lose Out

Manchester United are closing in on a deal for Barcelona winger Pedro Rodriguez, Express understand. A source close to Pedro revealed that the player may complete the move to Old Trafford later this week, with United ready to activate his £22 million release clause.

The Spain international star has been attracting a lot of interests from the likes of Chelsea, Juventus and Liverpool, but Man United appear to be leading the race to land the player, as per AS.

Pedro has seen his fortunes changed at the Nou Camp since the arrival of Neymar and Luis Suarez, limiting the 27-year old to cameo appearances for the Blaugrana.

Barca boss, Luis Enrique prefers the front three of Messi, Neymar and Suarez and as a result, Pedro who used to be a stalwart in the team now seems to be out of favour.

Louis van Gaal has revealed that he wants to strengthen two positions in his team before the close of the transfer window. Should Pedro join, he would likely be utilised in a front three which will include Memphis Depay and Wayne Rooney.

The speedster has also revealed to friends he wants to move to United, as per Telegraph, citing the presence of his Spanish friends Ander Herrera and Juan Mata as one of the reasons.

Meanwhile, Pedro’s teammate, Sergio Busquets has also dropped a hint that the wide man could be leaving for Old Trafford this summer, saying he wants to get more playing time.

“Yes, I have spoken to him but I won’t tell u what he said. It was a private conversation,” Busquests was speaking before Saturday’s tour match with Manchester United in Santa Clara.

“I would want him to stay, I would love him to stay. He is a friend of mine and it will be his final decision. He wants to play more and get more minutes. That’s what he wants.”

As suggested by talkSPORT, however, the funds that will be used for the Spaniard’s transfer will likely come from the sale of Angel Di Maria, who Pedro will certainly replace in the United team.

The Barcelona winger started on only 15 occasions last term, despite featuring 35 times in the La Liga. Nonetheless, he managed to score 6 league goals for the Blaugrana.

Pedro has won all there is to be with both club and country. He is a winner of the World Cup, European Championship, Champions League and La Liga, so the Spanish will bring vast experience, as well as a winning mentality to complement the United team.

Man United are also targeting defensive options, with Sergio Ramos and Nicolas Otamendi on their wish list.