• Premier League

Utd and Chelsea tussle over Lucas Moura

ESPN staff
July 10, 2012
Lucas Moura is in demand this summer © Getty Images
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Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas Moura is moving closer to a £30 million switch to Manchester United after the Old Trafford club sent a delegation to Brazil to begin talks, reports have said.

Lucas, 19, said on Monday that he was open to a move to Europe. His father, who is also his agent, has also had a meeting with Inter Milan about a possible transfer, and the attacking midfielder has also been linked with Real Madrid.

"You never know what can happen," Lucas said. "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.

"Of course I think about it, but I can't let it go to my head. I'm very calm and down to earth about it. My job is to play football so that these clubs continue to be interested."

Chelsea have had a bid for the attacking midfielder - reported to be £32 million - turned down, but United are hopeful that they can seal a transfer before Lucas comes to London to play for Brazil at the Olympics.

The player said he "cannot guarantee" that he will stay at Sao Paulo until the end of his contract, adding: "I know my father ... had a meeting [with Inter Milan], but I don't know what was said. Now I will go to the Olympics with my mind only on winning a gold medal."

Inter remain keen to complete a move for Lucas and are reported to be ready to pay £20 million for him. They had made a lower bid during the season.

The Inter president Massimo Moratti said his club hoped to complete the signing, but admitted: "I don't know if it's a hope or more a target to keep tabs on, considering the times we're in."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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