Bayern Munich set to hijack Manchester United's move for Thiago Alcantara

Manchester United are set to lose out in the race for Thiago Alcantara with the Barcelona midfielder poised to join former manager Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich.

It had been thought the Spaniard had opted to join United after deciding his hopes of securing a place at next year's World Cup were best served away from the Nou Camp.

However, Guardiola has confirmed his interest in bringing the midfielder to the Champions League winners.

He said: 'I want Thiago Alcantara. I have asked Bayern to get him but I don't know what will happen. Thiago is the only player I want, that's what I told them.

'It'll be him or no one. We have many players but we the need the special extra quality that Thiago Alcantara brings.

'I know Thiago very well. I talked to Rummenigge and Sammer about him, we will wait and then see'

'I don't think adding another midfielder will be a problem for us. I spoke to club about my concept and told them why I want Thiago Alcantara. I give my opinion, but I listen to the board. If they say no, that's ok.

'Nobody will leave Barcelona, unless they feel they won't play much. He wants to play. That's why I proposed him to the club'

The news will be a blow to new United manager David Moyes, who had hoped to use Thaigo to bolster a midfield lacking the retired Paul Scholes and for whom the futures of Darren Fletcher and Anderson in particular are uncertain.