• Premier League

United win race for 15-year-old wonderkid

ESPN staff
November 7, 2011
A chat with Sir Alex Ferguson persuaded Andreas Pereira to join Manchester United © Getty Images
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Highly touted PSV Eindhoven prospect Andreas Pereira has confirmed he will join Manchester United in the New Year.

The Brazilian-born 15-year-old, who has represented Belgium at youth level, has agreed a deal to move to Old Trafford in 2012, despite interest from other clubs in the Premier League and around Europe.

Pereira revealed that a one-on-one chat with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson played a key role in his decision.

"I knew that PSV had given me my chance, but Manchester United is obviously a great club," Pereira told VoetbalPrimeur. "Other British clubs were interested. I thought about it, but Manchester United is a dream club for me.

"I have been a few times to Manchester United to have a look. I got a tour and spoke with Sir Alex Ferguson. Being a 15-year-old and being able to talk with him is great!"

PSV signed Pereira from Belgian side Lommel United, after he moved to Belgium as a youngster. He is widely regarded as one of the finest players in his age group in Europe.

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