MANCHESTER UNITED MANAGER David Moyes says the English champions’ attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas remained alive after reports said two earlier bids had failed.
Moyes, who was appointed as Alex Ferguson’s successor at the end of last season, tabled an initial offer of 25 million pounds ($38 million, 29 million euros), later upping the ante to 30 million pounds, British reports said.
Asked about any progress in United’s talks with Barcelona on Spanish international midfielder Fabregas, Moyes simply said: “Ongoing”.
Moyes is keen to sign the creative midfielder but reports from Spain suggest Barca will not make a decision on Fabregas until they appoint a successor to cancer-stricken coach Tito Vilanova,
Moyes also said Robin van Persie, who pulled out of United’s last match on their Asian tour with a thigh-injury, was expected to play against Cerezo Osaka on Friday despite being absent from training.