Manchester United have reportedly shifted their attention towards signing Lazio attacker Felipe Anderson, after missing out on Pedro Rodriguez to Chelsea, according to reports from ESPN. 

The Red Devils had lined up a move for Pedro, but in a dramatic turn of events, Chelsea swooped in late and hijacked the transfer after paying out his stipulated release clause. 

Manchester United are forced to look for options elsewhere, and ESPN sources claim that the Red Devils are ready to rekindle their interest in the Lazio attacker. 

Back in May, several Italian media speculated about Anderson’s move to United, with Gazzetta dello Sport even claiming Louis van Gaal was ready to submit a bid in the region of €50m for the 22-year-old.

Anderson is seen as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, after impressing for Lazio last season, managing 11 goals and further 7 assists in 30 appearances, and helping the Biancocelesti reach the Champions League. 

The Brazilian midfielder played in Lazio’s Champions League qualifier clash against Bayer Leverkusen in midweek, but he could still be eligible to feature in the Champions League group stages for Manchester United, should the deal goes through. 

ESPN claim that United are pondering a bid to test Lazio’s resolve to hold on to the South American star. Meanwhile, Manchester United have shown a reported interest in Southampton’s Sadio Mane, but the Saints insist they will not sell the Senegal international.