Manchester United could secure the services of Sergi Roberto for free, seven years after the Red Devils launched an unsuccessful bid for the Barcelona academy graduate.

Fabrizio Romano reports the 32-year-old is preparing to leave Barcelona as a free agent after failing to earn a new contract – ending his 18-year spell with the club.

While never really establishing himself as a mainstay in La Blaugrana’s first team, Roberto has notched close to 400 senior appearances and won two Champions League titles.

Things could’ve worked out much differently for the midfielder though, had a proposed transfer to United gone through seven years ago. Now available to sign for free, United might choose to turn to the utility man if they decide against signing Ugarte.