Thiago Alcantara is unlikely to consider his future for at least another three weeks.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move for the 22-year-old, as David Moyes looks to make an impression with a big-name signing following his appointment as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor. Unlike his days at Goodison Park, the former Everton boss can be assured of a healthy transfer budget during the forthcoming summer window.
Although his former charge Marouane Fellaini is being tipped to follow the Scot to Old Trafford, reports suggest that Thiago is his top target. The buyout clause in the Barcelona star’s contract is understood to have dropped from a staggering €90million to just €18million, after he failed to play 30 minutes or more in 60 percent of games this term.
Such a fee would certainly be within grasp for Moyes, who often voiced his frustration at being unable to compete with the big-spenders in the Premier League during his time on Merseyside. Thiago, though, is unlikely to make any decision on his future for at least the next three weeks, as the Spaniard focuses his attention on the Under-21 European Championship.
“I just live my life and I am very happy,” said the midfielder. “I enjoy it in Barcelona because I have lived through some great times but we will see what happens after the Euros. Any player is used to living with rumours about him and they just cannot affect you.”
The tournament, held in Israel, will begin on 5 June and Spain, the reigning champions, kick-off their campaign against Russia the following day, before completing Group B with fixtures against Germany and Holland. Should Thiago and the rest of Julen Lopetegui’s men progress all the way, they will play a semi-final on 15 June and the final on 18 June.
