Manchester United: Andreas Pereira targets breaking into first-team squad

Manchester United starlet Andreas Pereira hopes to establish himself as an attacking midfielder in Louis van Gaal's first team.

Pereira, 19, was handed his Premier League debut in the 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in March and ended prolonged speculation over his future by signing a new three-year deal at Old Trafford the following month.

While born in Belgium, he was called into Brazil's squad for the Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand, where he scored a sensational solo effort in the final of the competition as his side finished as runners-up. Pereira is now eager to continue that progress next season.

"Yes, it is about breaking into the first-team squad," Pereira told United's official website. "After that, I have to work hard to get into the first team and, following that, we will see."

Pereira operated across the midfield for Warren Joyce's Under-21 side last season and while he is happy to play in any position, he has an eye on one role in particular. He said: "I can play on the wing or in midfield. It is just a case of wherever the manager asks me to play, I will play. I think I could be a good attacking midfielder."

Pereira's teammates are also eagerly awaiting his impact on the first team at Old Trafford, with Marouane Fellaini hoping the youngster can continue on his current trajectory into the new season.

"Andreas is a big talent," Fellaini told United Review, the club's official website reports. "I think the club did everything to sign him up to a contract because a lot of teams wanted him. He has to continue like that, to work hard and to keep going and try to win his place."