Washington Nationals star Bryce Harper will be the most coveted free agent this winter, and one MLB general manager believes the 2015 NL MVP will wind up signing with an NL East division rival.

"I think Harper winds up with the Phillies," the anonymous GM told Jon Heyman of Fancred Sports.

Heyman also added that "One Phillies-connected person" expects Philadelphia to chase Harper, who could land the biggest free agent contract in MLB history. Heyman noted that speculation suggests the Phillies aren't Harper's top choice, however.

There will be a massive bidding war for Harper's services, and it's easy to believe at least half a dozen teams will be interested. Philadelphia enters play on Saturday with  a 68-54 record, half a game behind the Atlanta Braves for the NL East lead, and they have plenty of money to spend this offseason if they want to pursue Harper.

RELATED: EVERY MLB TEAM’S STARTING LINEUP IF THEY HAD KEPT THEIR DRAFTED PLAYERS

The 25-year-old Harper has already clubbed 30 home runs and 77 RBI, but his mere .243 batting average and .895 OPS leave a lot to be desired; they're far below his career averages.

However, this is a six-time All-Star who carries one of baseball's top bats, and Harper will surely hit better for average next season. The winner of the Harper sweepstakes will receive a top-10 player in all of baseball, and an annual MVP candidate.

The Phillies are entering contention with a great group of young players, plus prized free agent acquisition Jake Arrieta. It could all come down to money, however, and it's anybody's guess just how much Philadelphia will offer. Harper has also been linked to the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs, as he's close friends with third baseman Kris Bryant.

The Harper sweepstakes will be the top storyline to follow in the offseason. For now, let the fun games of guessing where he'll wind up begin.

NEXT: JOHN GIBBONS NEEDS TO LEAVE THE BLUE JAYS BEFORE THE REBUILD STARTS