Sergio Busquets hinted that Pedro could leave Barcelona for more playing time at Manchester United.

Pedro has a £22 million release clause in his contract and Louis van Gaal is interested in signing him.

“Yes, I have spoken to him but I won’t tell you what he said. It was a private conversation.

“I would want him to stay, I would love him to stay. He is a friend of mine and it will be his final decision. He wants to play more and get more minutes. That’s what he wants.

“But we are in a team of great players and it’s hard for him. Finally it will be his decision but I hope he stays.”

If Pedro were signed by Van Gaal he could operate alongside Wayne Rooney and Memphis Depay in the front line of the manager’s planned 4-3-3 shape next season.