The midfielder looks set to be David Moyes first major signing as Manchester United manager.
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Thiago Alcantara looks set to sign for Manchester United on a five year deal, with the Red Devils paying Barcelona £17 million for the highly rated midfielder, the Guardian reports.
Although United look like they are going to be successful in signing Thiago, the deal is unlikely to be completed before the club fly out for their pre-season tour on Wednesday.
Reports had suggested that United could miss out on Thiago, with many thinking that Barcelona had persuaded the 22 year old to stay at the Nou Camp by promising him more first team football next season.
However, according to highly placed sources, United will more than likely sign Thiago despite Barcelona’s last minute attempts to keep the midfielder in Spain.
Should he make the move to Old Trafford, Thiago will become David Moyes first major signing as United boss and will help the Scot to re-enforce the clubs midfield, which has been a key area of weakness for the Red Devils for sometime.
Thiago had a frustrating season at Barcelona last term, finding himself on the bench for most big games.
The Spaniard is believed to be desperate to be a part of Spain’s squad for next summers World Cup and will only do that if he is playing regular first team football, something Barcelona have been unable to guarantee him.