Manchester United Transfer News: Felipe Anderson Bid Eyed, Lionel Messi Latest

Manchester United are preparing a move for Lazio's Felipe Anderson as they look to strengthen their attacking options, according to reports in Italy. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport and website CalcioMercato.com (h/t the Irish Independent) both report manager Louis van Gaal will attempt to sign the Brazilian after the Roman team previously rejected a £28 million bid for their player. 

The 22-year-old is said to have been "disappointed" the switch to Old Trafford fell through, per La Gazzetta dello Sport. Therefore, he would surely be tempted if the Red Devils moved for him once again. 

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The attacking midfielder, who features on both flanks, has a £56 million buyout clause in his deal, as cited by the Irish Independent. His current contract runs until 2020, making a move a costly venture for any suitor. Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also in the hunt for Anderson, providing LvG with unwanted competition for his signature. 

Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Joe Short of the Express) also claimed Anderson had previously agreed terms with United, accepting a £3.2 million per year deal to move to the north west before the transfer collapsed. The wage deal would gazump his earnings in Italy, netting him £60,000 a week after tax.

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However, LvG could not persuade Lazio to sell, and opted to focus his transfer funds on the capture of Anthony Martial, who has been a revelation since his move. 

Anderson had a breakout campaign in 2014-15, scoring 10 goals in 23 Serie A starts, according to WhoScored.com.

His form has made him one of Europe's most desired talents, and he fits the profile of the type of player United need. 

Barca Rubbish Messi Claims

Barcelona insist Lionel Messi will not be joining Manchester United or any other team in the near future after reports suggested the Argentina wizard could leave the Camp Nou in the summer.

The Sun (h/t Marc Williams of the Daily Star) claimed Messi was ready to switch to England, but the Blaugrana have categorically moved to quash the rumour. 

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Barca’s president Josep Maria Bartomeu was adamant the player is staying with the Catalans, per Williams:

"

People who say Messi is leaving Barcelona should be embarrassed.

Messi is recovering for the Madrid-Barcelona game. He is hoping to play El Clasico, but injuries have their process.

Leo and his father said they don't imagine playing at another club. The relationship with the family is very good.

We are not in the negotiation phase yet, when the time comes it will be presented.

He has a contract for the next three seasons.

"

Messi has missed part of the new season through injury, but a move to United always appeared unlikely. 

However, he has achieved everything in the Spanish league, with the top English division being the only domestic competition that matches La Liga. 

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Anderson appears a much more suited prospect for United, but his buyout clause is steep—despite his obvious talents. 

United have looked lightweight in attack, with Memphis Depay now consigned to the bench after a poor start to his Old Trafford career, forcing Van Gaal to look at his wide options. 

Martial has been pushed out to the left, allowing Wayne Rooney to reprise his role as a No. 9, but the England captain's lack of form and pace mean the Red Devils need a creative player like Anderson in the January transfer window.