According to a report in the Spanish media, Manchester United have joined Barcelona by expressing their interest in Valencia full-back Jordi Alba.
Barcelona remain the frontrunners for the Spanish defender’s signature, but it is believed the Catalans are trying to negotiate a smaller transfer fee, which has given United the chance to make their own offer.
Goal.com had reported in April that Sir Alex Ferguson, on the look-out for a long-term Patrice Evra successor, had sent scouts to watch Alba in action and had received glowing reports about the 23-year-old.
And according to Spanish newspaper Marca, Ferguson is interested in firming up his interest with an official offer this summer, while British newspaper the Metro have claimed that United could offer Brazilian midfielder Anderson in part-exchange.
Valencia seem resigned to losing Alba after the club’s sporting director, Braulio Vazquez, revealed Barcelona’s desire to sign the highly-rated defender.
He told Radio Galega: "I suppose Barcelona want him because he's Catalan and plays on the left wing. We are obviously talking about an excellent player, and it's only normal that Barcelona are keen to sign him."
Marca also claim that while Barca are currently favourites, Alba would certainly be interested in a move to United as his main concern is to play for a big European club and compete for major honours.
The newspaper also understands that Alba’s agent will meet with Valencia president Manuel Llorente in the coming days to discuss his client’s future.
