Manchester United's hopes of signing Douglas Costa threatened by Chelsea interest

20 July 2009 13:14
United have reportedly tabled a bid of £8 million for the 18-year-old dubbed the new Ronaldinho - in a deal that would include significant add-ons depending on his success at Old Trafford. But Brazilian side Gremio, who are experiencing significant financial problems, value their player at £21m. According to a report in the Guardian, United have made it very clear to Gremio that they will not meet such an inflated fee, and after weeks of talks the South American side are understood to be coming round to the Premier League champions' way of thinking. Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking to wrap up the deal as quickly as possible following suggestions that rivals Chelsea and Real are monitoring Costa's situation. Spanish side Villareal are also believed to have made an offer of £6m plus add-ons. Well-renowned deal maker Chris Nathaniel is expected to fly to Brazil on behalf of United later this week to find out what Gremio will accept. The Old Trafford outfit remain the front runners in this particular transfer race largely due to the club's ever growing Brazilian contingent. Costa is understood to favour a move to the Premier League in which case it may well become a matter of United offering higher wages than Chelsea. Meanwhile, Eric Cantona has said Manchester City's big-spending will not be enough for them to match United and break into the top four next season. The former bearer of the famous No 7 shirt said: 'Money is great but it's important to work with young English players. United are the perfect example of that."

Source: Telegraph