Man Utd hopes ended as Barcelona wrap up €39m transfer

Barcelona have announced the signing of a midfielder Manchester United were believed to be tracking.

The Catalan giants have completed the signing of Brazilian midfielder Arthur from Gremio in Porto Alegre.

Barcelona will pay €30million, plus €9 million in add-ons for the talented 21-year-old with the La Liga giants paying the initial fee in July.

Arthur was understood to be being monitored by Inter and Manchester United but both clubs have been beaten by Barcelona, whose have been in negotiations for several months.

Arthur recently confirmed talks were underway with the La Liga giants after representatives of the Brazilian club flew to Barcelona to hold talks with Barca sporting director Robert Fernandez.

“Of course I am nervous,” Arthur said.

“It’s normal to feel anxiety – this is a really important moment. But between me, Gremio and Barcelona, I am sure that there’s going to be an agreement which benefits everyone, that’s the important thing.

“I speak daily with my agent and with everyone at Gremio, but I still don’t know the result of the negotiations.”

Marca last week reported that the deal had collapsed with Gremio chasing €55million for the player and that United and Chelsea could pursue a deal for the player.