Manchester United are locked in a transfer battle with Inter over the signature of Brazilian playmaker Lucas Moura, according to The Daily Mail.

The Sao Paulo attacking midfielder is one of the brightest prospects in world football, and at 19-years old has already confirmed himself as a key man for both club and country.

With Sir Alex Ferguson eager to add a creative midfielder to his squad this summer as a long-term replacement for Paul Scholes, the Red Devils recently sent a delegation to Brazil to meet with the player's representatives and father.

However, it has emerged that Inter are also keen to sign the South American schemer, with the player confirming that his father had also met with the Italian giants.

"I cannot guarantee that I will stay until the end of my contract. Much has changed and the situation is not up to me any more.

"I know my father and my agent had a meeting with Inter but I don't know what was said. Now I will go to the Olympics with my mind only on winning a gold medal," he confirmed.

A bid in the region of £30 million and more will be needed to win the race for Moura's signature, as Chelsea had a similar offer rejected by the Brasileiro club earlier this summer.

By Gareth McKnight

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