Solskjaer cites Fernandes’ influence, as Andreas Pereira moves to Lazio

Manchester United midfielder Andreas Pereira has completed a season-long loan move to Lazio, with the Italians securing an option to make the transfer permanent.

The 24-year-old made 40 appearances for United last season and was a key man under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

But Pereira has found opportunities limited after the arrival of Bruno Fernandes. The signing of Donny van de Beek further pushes him down the pecking order.

Lazio confirmed they expected the deal to go through earlier in the week and now both clubs have announced his transfer.

Pereira could make his debut at the weekend in Lazio’s Serie A clash with Inter Milan. A meeting with former United stars Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez await.

Lazio have secured the option to make Pereira’s move permanent, with the fee set at £24.5m.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told the club’s official website: “They’re a big club, Lazio. Andreas needs to play regularly.

“He started last season really well and played loads of games. You could see the confidence growing and see him developing.

 

 

But, after we signed Bruno, that position that Andy played in was taken because Bruno came in and had such an impact. We decided this is what was best for Andreas.”

This will be Pereira’s third loan move away from Old Trafford following spells at Granada and Valencia in Spain.

 

 

New Jadon Sancho bid

United, meanwhile, have reportedly made a fresh bid for Jadon Sancho that tops €100million and promises Borussia Dortmund a new payment plan for the winger’s exit.

United are actively seeking a new wide man this transfer window, with Sancho their top target.

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The Red Devils have already agreed personal terms, with the transfer fee the overriding issue. Dortmund will not sell for less than €120million (£108million), a price United deem unrealistic.

The Old Trafford club reportedly submitted a bid worth up to £91.3million on Tuesday, which the German giants swiftly rejected.

One transfer expert insists United remain hopeful a deal can still be agreed – that despite BVB stating they expect him to stay.

 

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