United lining up sensational swoop for Neymar

LONDON: The Red Devils are making a big move to lure Brazil superstar Neymar to Old Trafford.

With reports that Neymar is ready to leave French champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Manchester United are going all out to get his services.

United have indicated that they will battle all the way with Real Madrid for the 26-year-old’s services.

Though Real are the frontrunners, United have the financial muscles to make a serious bid for the super forward.

Jose Mourinho’s team would have to fork out more than £200 million (RM1.07 billion), a world record, for Neymar, apart from a £30 million a year salary.

Neymar stunned the football world last year by quitting Barcelona to join PSG for a colossal £198 million.

It is learnt that Neymar’s father might have a big say in the Brazilian playing in the EPL as Neymar Sr is a big fan of the Red Devils.

Neymar Sr has told the media that his son, himself, wants to leave PSG.

According to reports, Neymar has told his teammates that he won’t return to PSG after the World Cup in Russia. With Neymar said to have a strained relationship with PSG coach Unai Emery, his exit from Paris is likely, and United fans are now hoping that he ends up at Old Trafford.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is adamant that Neymar will not be sold this summer.

Al-Khelaifi sent out a defiant message, insisting that the 26year-old is not for sale at any cost and will remain at the Parc des Princes next season.

“Who said he cannot stay here? Did anyone say that? Nobody,” Al-Khelaifi told reporters.

“He has a contract with us and he will stay, 2,000 per cent.”

Meanwhile, Rui Faria, Mourinho’s trusted confidante and assistant, will leave United at the end of the season.

The 42-year-old, who was linked with the vacant manager’s post at Arsenal, wants to spend more time with his family before testing himself as a head coach and leaves with Mourinho’s blessing.

Faria has worked with Mourinho for 17 years and his departure will spark questions who can replace him, with club captain Michael Carrick considered an early contender.

Faria said: “After a lot of consideration, and with a very heavy heart, I have decided the time is right for me to move on.

“I have had 17 years of incredible and unforgettable experiences. However, I have felt for some time that I would like to spend much more quality time with my family before pursuing any new challenge in my professional life.”