OSAKA, Japan (AFP) - Manchester United boss David Moyes said on Thursday the English champions' attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas remained alive after reports said two earlier bids had failed.

Moyes, who was appointed as Alex Ferguson's successor at the end of last season, tabled an initial offer of £25 million, later upping the ante to £30 million, British reports said.

Asked about any progress in United's talks with Barcelona on Spanish international midfielder Fabregas, Moyes simply said: "Ongoing".

Moyes also said Robin van Persie, who pulled out of United's last match on their Asian tour with a thigh-injury, was expected to play against Cerezo Osaka on Friday despite being absent from training.

Injured striker Wayne Rooney is on the mend, he added.