Manchester United have made a £20million-plus bid for Brazilian wonder boy Lucas Moura - and want him signed before he plays in the Olympics.
United are now in official negotiations for the Samba starlet who is their top target for the new season, as Mirror Sport revealed, and the opening offer could rise in the coming days.
Boss Sir Alex Ferguson has given the go-ahead to spend a chunk of his budget on the Sao Paulo sensation who would walk into his side even at the age of 19.
And the Glazers will also finance the move because of Lucas's age and potential 'sell-on value' - with the Americans under pressure to deliver a big name after a trophyless season.
Fergie has been after Lucas for weeks but the attempt to land him has now got serious, with Inter Milan also in the hunt - and the youngster admitting he could possibly move.
United do not want Lucas to light up the Olympics this month and push his value higher again. Sao Paulo scent a killing and are looking for a jackpot deal.
The Brazilians claimed to have had a £32million bid from Chelsea last season and would like that figure. United are convinced they currently have the best offer on the table.
Lucas has opened the door to a switch and said: "I cannot guarantee that I will stay until the end of my contract. Much has changed and the situation is not up to me anymore.
"I don't have a crazy desire to leave but when the time comes I will speak with my family and decide what is best for my future.
"I'm very calm and down to earth about it. My job is to play football so that these clubs continue to be interested."
Source : Mirror.co.uk
