Manchester United Transfer News: United's £30M Bid for Lucas Moura Rejected

Manchester United have reportedly had a bid of £30 million rejected by Sao Paulo as they try to secure Brazilian international Lucas Moura for next season.

Moura has quickly become one of United's top transfer targets, and the Red Devils have been confidently pursuing the teenager for some time now—even sending a delegation party to Brazil to try and wrap up a deal (per Daily Mirror).

But according to the Daily Mirror, Sao Paulo have rejected United's £29.8 million offer—the second bid they have turned down from the Red Devils after turning down their earlier bid of £25.9 million. 

The reasoning behind this move does seem a little strange given the club's previous preparations for a deal to take place. Sao Paulo's current financial situation, however, could explain a little more as to why the club is suddenly wanting to boost the fee, as Martin Lipton writes.

"

The club, which plays in the iconic but decrepit Morumbi Stadium, own 80 per cent of Moura’s economic rights until the end of the month, with Moura and his representatives retaining the remainder. The 19-year-old will then, contractually, acquire another 10 per cent.

Sao Paulo are currently without a sponsor, and keeping hold of their star asset is seen as the only way of attracting outside investment.

United will now have to up their offer—paying above what they felt was the market rate for their prime target—or withdraw, a move which might force a change of heart from [club president Juvenal] Juvencio and the cash-strapped club.

"

If Manchester United are to secure the services of Moura for next season, it appears they would have to offer a figure upwards of £30 million—a price tag they are unlikely to meet.

Even for the most proven stars, United would be reluctant to offer a figure of £30 million—thus they will not and should not pay that much for a 19-year-old midfielder. 

Moura's age and size are two serious questions that the Red Devils must answer if they are to offer Sao Paulo the substantial transfer fee. There is little doubting his ability and potential, but with other options such as Joao Mountiho and Christian Eriksen available for significantly less money, the Red Devils may be better off pursing other alternatives.

As I wrote previously on Moura, he is one of the players for the future and one of the brightest prospects in world football—he's just not worth the £30 million or more that the Red Devils would have to pay to get him.

What do you make of the Lucas Moura situation?

Comment below or hit me up on Twitter: Follow @dantalintyre