Manchester United were strongly, and rather improbably, linked with a move for Barcelona superstar Neymar in the summer.
In what was initially assumed to be pure speculation, Neymar amazed us all by saying that he or his representatives did indeed have contact with United. The BBC, a media outlet which never jumps the gun on the truth, reported at the time:
Barcelona forward Neymar has confirmed he had “conversations” about joining Manchester United this summer but did not receive a firm offer.
You have to imagine that if the player did become available in future that Manchester United would once again be among his suitors.
And the Brazil forward has once more flirted with the media about his future by stating that there is one manager who he would love to play under. He is quoted in The Mirror as saying:
“Yes there is one: Guardiola is a guy that I really admire and who I would love to work,”
Guardiola has stated that he will manage in England from next season and Neymar will know this.
Asked about his future plans in general Neymar said:
“It’s tough to say if I want to play in other countries,”
“Nobody knows tomorrow, but I’m very happy where I am right now, at Barcelona.
It is widely expected that Guardiola will go to Manchester City in the summer, but rumours persist that Manchester United still plan to snare him.
It makes for a fascinating story. Whoever gets Pep might also have the chance to sign one of the best players in the world.
Of course, with Neymar’s contract up for renewal in 2018, this could all just be PR to ensure he gets top dollar with his current club.
But Manchester United fans would welcome the young legend with open arms.
Let’s see him in action.
