Rumour: Manchester United given hope in signing Barcelona product Rafa Alcantara

Rafa Alcantara – On loan at Celta Vigo

Manchester United failed in their bid to sign Thiago Alcantara from Barcelona last season, with the midfield player more interested in a reunion with Pep Guardiola than a move to Old Trafford, but are now reportedly set to turn their attentions to the former Barca man’s brother.

The Express believe that United are keen on a move for Thiago’s younger brother Rafa Alcantara, also a product of Barcelona. The 21-year-old who – like his brother – plays as an attacking midfield player, is more commonly referred to as Rafinha and is currently on loan at Celta Vigo.

However his development away from Barcelona has been enough to turn heads, both at Barcelona and beyond.

While United are said to be readying a move, a transfer is likely to depend on whether the youngster can get any closer to the Barcelona first-team. Rafinha is under contract at the Nou Camp until 2016 and has not expressed a wish to leave.

“He is a Barcelona player,” his father told reporters. “We don’t know what will happen in the future, if he will return or be loaned again.”

“But Rafinha is working hard to play for Barcelona in the future.”