Manchester United have made an opening bid for Sao Paulo star Lucas.

The Mirror says United have made a £20 million-plus bid for Brazilian wonder boy Lucas - and want him signed before he plays in the Olympics.

United are now in official negotiations and the opening offer could rise in the coming days.

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson has given the go-ahead to spend a chunk of his budget on the Sao Paulo sensation who would walk into his side even at the age of 19.

United do not want Lucas to light up the Olympics this month and push his value higher again.