Barcelona accept they will lose Thiago Alcantara to Manchester United. The Daily Star says Barca have given up hope of trying to convince Thiago to turn down Manchester United.

The 22-year-old playmaker looks set to arrive at Old Trafford any day now - and the move could even be completed as soon as tomorrow.

Nou Camp boss Tito Vilanova has held talks with Thiago to try to convince him to stay but those pleas have fallen on deaf ears.

Team-mates Xavi and Andres Iniesta have also tried to twist Thiago's arm to reject United's advances.

Thiago will become David Moyes' first big summer signing when he arrives at Old Trafford, while Barca are already preparing for life without him.