Moyes confirms second bid for Fabregas

United boss determined to land Barcelona mid-fielder.

LONDON: Manchester United manager David Moyes revealed yesterday he has stepped up his pursuit of Cesc Fabregas after making a second bid for the Barcelona midfielder.

United confirmed last Monday that they had made an initial approach for the former Arsenal star, but that offer of £25 million was swiftly rejected by the Spanish champions.

Moyes is determined to do everything he can to lure Fabregas back to the Premier League as he seeks a marquee signing to mark his arrival at Old Trafford.

And the former Everton boss, appointed as Alex Ferguson’s successor at the end of last season, said at a press conference in Yokohama yesterday that a second improved offer, believed to be in the region of £30 million, has now been lodged.

United Executive Vice-Chairman Ed Woodward returned to England ahead of schedule last Wednesday to lead the Fabregas negotiations and Moyes said, “As I understand it, Ed had a response [to the first offer]. We have made a second offer but Ed is dealing with it rather than me.”

With reports from Spain suggesting Barca will not make a decision on Fabregas until they appoint a successor to coach Tito Vilanova, Moyes acknowledged there may come a time when he has to turn to other targets.

“I think a point does come. But when you are interested in good players you want to give it every opportunity to materialise. I will hope things will continue to move forward.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 23^rd, 2013.

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