Barca to pay buy-out clause for United target.
Barcelona could be set to hijack Atletico Madrid defender Miranda’s proposed move to Manchester United by meeting the player’s buy-out clause fee, according to Fichajes.net.
The 29-year-old centre-back is widely expected to leave the Vicente Calderon this summer after emerging as one of Europe’s most in-demand defensive players in a highly successful three years with Atletico.
The Brazilian was part of the side that won La Liga and reached the final of the Champions League this season, and United had recently emerged as favourites to snap him up in this transfer window as they look for replacements for the departing Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.
However, Barcelona are also in need of new signings in defence after a highly disappointing trophyless season, and with veteran defender Carles Puyol set to retire from the game.
This has seen the Catalan giants enter the running for Miranda, and a bid of £24m which would activate the player’s release clause could be made as they look to raid their rivals for one of their most important players.
Atletico will no doubt favour selling Miranda abroad, but it remains to be seen where the player himself will choose for his next club.
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