European champions Bayern Munich are plotting to hijack Manchester United’s proposed deal to sign young Spanish star Thiago Alcantara.
The Barcelona midfielder was expected to have a medical at the Old Trafford club and complete the deal before the end of the month.
However, newly appointed Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed his desire to bring Thiago to the Allianz Arena.
Speaking in Germany today Guardiola answered “Yes” when asked if he wanted to sign Thiago.
He added: “I don’t know what’s going to happen. We have to wait. But I know him very well. He is a super, super player. He can play three, four or five positions.”
Guardiola also indicated that Alcantara is his only target: “It is either Thiago or nothing,” he said.
According to the reports from Spanish radio network Cadena Cope Guardiola will re-shape his team by moving Javi Martinez into a defensive role; allowing Thiago to go straight into midfield.
The promise of first team football is crucial to the youngster as he seeks to cement his place in the Spanish team for next summer’s World Cup.
Bayern now appear to have an edge in the race to sign the player and with Thiago being represented by Guardiola’s brother, Pere, any negotiations will most likely be speedy.
Picture courtesy of Barca TV, via YouTube, with thanks.
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