Pedro to Chelsea: Blues prepare to 'hijack' Manchester United move for Barcelona winger

United remain favourites for 28-year-old

Pedro attempts a shot during Barcelona's draw with Athletic Bilbao last night (GETTY IMAGES)

Chelsea are to make a late move for Barcelona winger Pedro, according to reports.

The Blues were linked with the 28-year-old earlier in the summer but Manchester United have been favourites to sign Pedro, with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward in Barcelona on Monday to negotiate a deal.

While United remain favourites to buy Pedro, Chelsea could attempt to 'hijack' a move, according to the Daily Mail.

The paper reports that Roman Abramovich, who is said to have sanctioned a late spending spree after Chelsea's poor start to the season, is particularly interested in bringing Pedro to Stamford Bridge.

Manchester City are also interested but Kevin De Bruyne remains their top attacking target.

Pedro is said to favour a move to Old Trafford but Manchester United have been trying to negotiate a fee below his €30million (approx. £22m) release clause - if they continue to delay Chelsea could steal in with a higher offer.

The winger has given United '72 hours' to complete a deal or he will stay at Barcelona.