Transfer News: Neymar interested in Manchester United move

Barcelona forward Neymar is open for a possible move to Old Trafford after being attracted to the size and history of Manchester United and the chance to play in the Premier League. United have reportedly been told they need to break the world record signing to land Neymar, who has a release clause of £137.8 million (AU$298.7 million) with the Catalan giants.

According to The Guardian, United are attempting to land Neymar before Sept. 1, when the transfer window closes. However, the Red Devils are set for a long-term strategy to pursue the 23-year-old Neymar, which would more likely be in next summer’s transfer market.

Neymar, who has three years left in his contract, was an integral part of Barcelona’s treble last season after winning the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. However, United are certain they could lure the Brazilian sensation out of Camp Nou.

United executive vice-chairman Ed Wooward was in Barcelona last Monday to close a deal for Pedro, who eventually opted to join Chelsea instead. But Woodward’s visit was believed to continue United’s bold intent to sign Neymar.

Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Luis Enrique refused to comment on the speculations surrounding Neymar’s future. Enrique expressed his displeasure about the transfer rumour at his post-match conference after Barca’s 1-0 vicotry over Athletic Bilbao in the team’s La Liga title defence.

"It doesn't interest me to talk about rumours, nor these types of situations. I only want to focus on what's happened to my team,” Enrique said, reports ESPN FC.

Neymar’s agent Wagner Ribeiro also dismissed the reports of Neymar’s possible move to Louis Van Gaal’s’ side. According to Manchester Evening News, Ribeiro insisted his client would not be joining United and said that an offer from the English club does not exist.

“There is nothing. Barcelona never think about selling Neymar and he is very happy there,” Ribeiro told Globo Esporte.

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