Thiago Alcantara, Manchester United’s primary summer transfer target, has joined European champions Bayern Munich in a £22 million deal.
The highly rated midfielder was widely expected to join the Reds from Barcelona this summer.
However, a late swoop by Thiago’s former coach, Pep Guardiola, has thrown United’s plans into turmoil.
A statement on Bayern’s website yesterday said: “The Spanish midfielder will travel in the coming days to Munich to attend the medical examination and sign a four-year contract until June 30, 2017.”
The loss of Thiago has left new United boss David Moyes in a weak position.
Following Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, it was speculated that United would not be as appealing to prospective players as in previous years.
Thiago’s decision to snub the club in favour of a move to Germany could further fuel those rumours.
Transfer speculation will now mount as United step up attempts to bolster their midfield with Moyes prepared to raid his former club Everton for Marouane Fellaini.
Picture courtesy of BarcaTV, via YouTube, with thanks.
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