Barcelona attempting to further delay Pedro's departure to Manchester United

Barcelona are attempting to further delay the departure of Pedro to Manchester United, following yesterday’s confirmation that Neymar will be sidelined for two weeks after being diagnosed with parotitis (mumps).

The Brazilian forward is set to miss tomorrow’s UEFA Super Cup versus Europa League winners Sevilla, as well as both legs of the Spanish Super Cup on August 14 and 17 against Athletic Bilbao; there is even concern that Neymar could miss the start of the La Liga campaign.

Barcelona, who were already against the idea of selling Pedro, are currently trying to convince the Spain international to remain at the club for the remainder of the season.

According to reports, an agreement has been reached between Manchester United and Barcelona for the forward, all that remains for the transfer to be completed is for the veteran player to agree personal terms and sign off on the deal. Barcelona understand that they are powerless to stop Pedro from leaving the club at this point. However they have been holding out hope that the player would reconsider his stance and remain with La Blaugrana this season.

Pedro has previously stated that he would play in the UEFA Super Cup and then make a final decision on his future. United wanted the forward’s move to be complete before the start of the Premier League campaign. However, club officials granted the player’s request to remain with Barcelona as he attempted to help his side secure their first trophy of the new season.

With Neymar sidelined, Barcelona have now made one final request for Pedro to hold off on his move, knowing that the forward is needed in Luis Enrique’s starting eleven for at least the next two weeks. However, the Spain international is aware that once Neymar is fully fit, he will once again be the manager’s fourth choice behind the Brazilian, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

On the other hand, United boss Louis van Gaal has all but guaranteed Pedro a spot alongside Wayne Rooney and Memphis Depay in his first-team squad.

It will be interesting to see how this story develops over the next 24-48 hours.