Lazio president confirms Felipe Anderson to Manchester United

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has reportedly been overheard confirming that the Biancoceleste's Brazilian playmaker, Felipe Anderson, will join Manchester United in the summer for €60m.

Reports emerging from Italy this morning in Il Messagero suggest that Lotito was heard to have said 'I've sold Felipe Anderson to Manchester United for €60m.

'I signed Felipe Anderson for €8m and I've already re-sold him for €60m. Next year he'll go to Manchester United.'

Anderson was strongly linked to United during the January transfer window, with multiple reports of a £35m transfer having been close being to agreed. The Brazilian remained in the Italian capital, however, as the window slammed shut, with the Old Trafford club electing against making any reinforcements to their beleaguered squad.

It would now seem that the rumour mill has cranked back up into full gear, as Lotito's comments spark speculation among fans and media alike.

Anderson had a breakout season for Lazio during the 2014/15 campaign, helping his side secure a third place finish in Serie A, along with a runners-up medal in the Coppa Italia.

However, Anderson's form this season has fallen way short of the standard he achieved previously, with the Brazilian regularly confined to the substitutes bench in the last few months.

Anderson is an attacking midfielder, comfortable playing as an inside-forward on the right or left, or centrally as a 'number 10' -- or trequartista, as it is known in Italy. Blessed with blistering pace and a powerful shot off either foot. When on form, Anderson is a frightening proposition for any defence.

The former Santos man possesses a skill set that would undoubtedly add a dimension to United's under-performing attack. Whether or not the Red Devils will be willing to risk forking out such a fee for a player currently struggling for form remains to be seen.