This one has certainly been a protracted affair.
But if Manchester United can get the deal over the line it could make their entire season.
Because, despite his decent form, Juan Mata is not a right winger.
If Pedro comes into the fold, his fellow countryman can shift inside to the number 10 role and Manchester United will have a much more balanced look about them overall.
Reports today suggest that personal terms have been agreed between the player and Manchester United and all that remains is for the two clubs to finalise the fee for the Spaniard.
Sky Sports quotes Spanish football expert Guillem Balague as saying:
“I understand a deal between the player and United is already in place and all that is left is for United to put the €30m on the table. They are just negotiating how they are going to pay it, with installments or an amount up-front.
“They are very close. I’m not sure whether Barcelona will try one last time with Pedro and say ‘don’t go’, but it seems his mind is already made up.”
Pedro to United: Get it done
The World Cup winner can, for starters, expect to play every week at Manchester United.
At the age of 28 and with so much experience and success, he would demand that as a minimum.
But his addition will be superb for the symmetry of the team.
His pace and guile on the right will complement Memphis on the other side and Juan Mata can pull the strings in the middle.
We still think that Manchester United could use one more forward after Pedro arrives.
But, make no mistake, this deal is huge for Manchester United’s season.
