Manchester United transfer news and rumours: Alexandre Pato and Carlos Bacca linked, Andreas Pereira loan

The most intriguing rumours surrounding Old Trafford today

Simon Rice
Friday 15 January 2016 04:53 EST
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Alexandre Pato
Alexandre Pato (GETTY IMAGES)

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Manchester United have reportedly joined the race to sign Alexandre Pato. The former AC Milan striker, who is now at Corinthians in his native Brazil, is keen on a return to Europe, and in particular the Premier League. Chelsea and Liverpool are both thought to be interested in the 26-year-old but it's now claimed that they have fresh competition with Louis van Gaal is 'cautiously' weighing up a move.

A current AC Milan player is also of interest. Spanish outlet Don Balon are reporting that a bid is being lined up for striker Carlos Bacca. With eight goals in 19 Serie A appearances, the 29-year-old is being seen as the potential answer to the club's woes in front of goal. They could face competition though from Chelsea for the £30m-rated player.

Mark Ogden - What to expect from Man Utd this January transfer window

The transfer ban imposed on Real Madrid has led to some conflicting reports over what impact it will have on the Spanish club. There are suggestions they could spend big this month, with David De Gea among those on their radar. However, the Independent understands that Real Madrid have simply given up hope on signing the goalkeeper anytime soon.

The Red Devils are reportedly on the verge of signing Luca Ercolani, a 16-year-old wonderkid from Italy. The centre-back currently plays for Serie D side Forli but has caught the attention of the man who brought Giuseppe Rossi and Federico Macheda to Old Trafford. It's claimed a deal of just £55,000 could be completed imminently.

Andreas Pereira could be on his way out of Old Trafford on loan, with the youngster appears to be prepared to spend time elsewhere and bide his time to break through at Manchester United. The former PSV player, who has made seven appearances this season, said when asked about leaving: "Perhaps. We will see what happens. I want to stay here, of course, but you never know."

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