Dani Alves has told Barcelona teammate Pedro to follow his heart as he considers leaving the Camp Nou for Manchester United.
Pedro has been identified by Louis van Gaal as his first-choice replacement for Angel di Maria as the United manager targets quality additions in the final weeks of the transfer window.
The 28-year-old has been with Barcelona throughout his career but found first team opportunities limited last season as Luis Suarez, Neymar and Lionel Messi settled in to their roles as Luis Enrique’s preferred front three. With the talented trio set to continue upfront next season Pedro will likely struggle to establish himself in the side.
Alves was another expected to depart the Camp Nou this summer before signing a two-year contract in June. Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Uefa Super Cup the defender did not attempt to advise his colleague as to where his future should be, though he admitted he hoped Pedro would stay.
"Ultimately the decisions don't come to me, they are for other people,” Alves said. "The more people interfere, the harder the decision is. Of course if I had to make the decision it would be for him to stay here for many more years.
"It's down to him and his heart but if he stays we'll be delighted, if not we'll respect his decision.
"If you feel you're not wanted at a club you have to go. Let's hope he doesn't make that decision."
