Ferguson: No plans to sell Ferdinand

 Sir Alex Ferguson says he has no plans of letting go defender Rio Ferdinand.

Doubts have been cast over Ferdinand’s role at the club since Ferguson went public on the defender losing pace and having to change his game.

“I’ve got no thoughts of letting Rio go,” Ferguson said. “He’s got a part to play. He’s got experience and he’s a big figure in our dressing room.

“The players look up to him, so that will continue. He can play for another couple of years, quite easily.

“We’ve built the team for the day that Gary Neville left and Rio left, it’s a fact. We have to look ahead and there’s nothing wrong with that. But it shouldn’t mean that Rio looks upon it as the end of his football life.

“He has been such a good player for us that it was important for me to explain his position. The fact is he’s not as quick as he was five years ago.

“That happens. People lose their pace. But he’s adjusted his game and he’s had terrific performances since then.”

Huddersfield chasing striker Will Keane

 Will Keane is wanted by Huddersfield Town.

The People says Keane is wanted on loan by Huddersfield.

Terriers chief Lee Clark watched the striker, 18, in action for United reserves last week.

Man Utd youngsters follow step-by-step process – Ferguson

 Sir Alex Ferguson is confident that none of the young players he develops are ever thrown into the fray too early.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Carling Cup quarter-final meeting with Crystal Palace, Ferguson said that all inexperienced footballers at the club are put through a development procedure which allows them to flourish at the top level.

"Players are never simply thrown into first team action," Ferguson told the club's official website. "They always follow this step-by-step process.

"I don't think we've ever been off the mark and given a boy his chance too early. That can be very damaging. If he's not up to the standards we require at United then we don't venture there.

"The last thing we'd want is to humiliate a player. I'm not saying every player I've ever given a debut to has gone on to be a fantastic player at this club, but most of them have at least forged successful careers.

"The monitoring system here is good and there's a lot of consistency within our academy staff.”

Man Utd target Manolo Gabbiadini ponders Atalanta options

Manolo Gabbiadini is considering his options at Atalanta.

The young striker has been linked with Manchester United.

“Gabbiadini is doing well, really well, with the Italian Under-21 side and he has a lot of quality,” stated Silvio Pagliari to Sky Sport Italia.

“Atalanta don’t want to sell him, they have been very clear about that, but he needs more space in the team.”

Ferguson explains process of introducing youngster to first team

 Sir Alex Ferguson has been discussing how he judges when his young players are ready for the first team.

Zeki Fryers, Larnell Cole, Paul Pogba and Michael Keane have already made their first-team bow in the competition this term, to demonstrate that the Carrington production line is still in fine working order.

"The monitoring system here is good and there's a lot of consistency with our Academy staff," says Sir Alex in the new edition of Inside United. "These are guys that have been here a long time and know what to look for. When somebody like Paul McGuinness comes to me and says: 'He's a first-team player', then I know to keep a special eye on the player.

"From there, we'll bring the boy into first-team training for a couple of sessions. That's what we're doing at the moment with Paul Pogba, Ravel Morrison, Jesse Lingard, Zeki Fryers, Larnell Cole and Michael Keane. They're all training with the first team.

"That allows me to see how they cope playing against seasoned professionals, it lets me judge their temperament. It allows me to get a far better picture of how they're progressing. And, while this is going on, you hope they're playing well for the Reserves and displaying the right attitude and enthusiasm.

"Players are never simply thrown into first-team action," he asserted. "They always follow this step-by-step process.

"I don't think we've ever been off the mark and given a boy his chance too early. That can be very damaging. If he's not up to the standards we require at United, then we don't venture there. The last thing we'd want is to humiliate a player. I'm not saying every player I've ever given a debut to has gone on to be a fantastic player at this club, but most of them have at least forged successful careers."

Peterborough eager to extend deal for Man Utd's Tunnicliffe

Peterborough United hope to extend the loan of midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe.

Posh football chief Barry Fry says manager Darren Ferguson hopes to keep hold of the youngster.

Fry said: "Hopefully Darren can persuade the boy and Manchester United to keep him here till the end of the season and, if that is the case, it will be a great signing for us. When we took him, Sir Alex did say that he only wanted him out until January, so we will have to just cross our fingers and hope he changes his mind on that one."

Owen says injury rehab on track

 Michael Owen says his injury recovery is on track.

The England international is recovering from a thigh injury.

"It's a nasty injury as it was a quite a decent tear in my thigh. But things are all going to plan so far [with the recovery] so we're pleased at that," he said.

Vidic feels he's back to his best at Man Utd

 Nemanja Vidic can sense himself returning to his very best.

United have conceded just one goal in six games since Vidic's return to the defence in mid-October.

The Serb, 30, said: "I've been training well. I feel close to top form."

Ferguson names youthful squad for Palace Cup tie

Sir Alex Ferguson has named a young squad for their Carling Cup quarterfinal with Crystal Palace.

Youngsters Ezekiel Fryers, Ravel Morrison, Michael Keane and Ben Amos have all been involved in United's run to the last eight and will hope to be handed another chance to impress manager Ferguson.

United will also have plenty of first-team experience at their disposal, including Brazilian full-back Rafael who is in line to make his first appearance of the season after a shoulder injury.

Manchester United (from): De Gea, Lindegaard, Amos, Thorpe, Rafael, Smalling, Fabio, Jones, Evans, Evra, Fryers, Nani, Valencia, Gibson, Carrick, Fletcher, Pogba, M Keane, Morrison, Cole, Vermijl, Park, Young, Rooney, Hernandez, Berbatov, Diouf, Macheda.

Man Utd have advantage on Liverpool in battle for FC Twente striker Ola John

Liverpool are challenging Manchester United for FC Twente striker Ola John.

The young Dutchmam, 19, is being followed by Liverpool chief Damien Comolli this season as he impresses for Twente.

However, John has revealed he's also wanted by United - which have an advantage on Liverpool courtesy of their partnership agreement with Twente.

"I was interesting Manchester United and Arsenal. But I have chosen for my chances to remain with FC Twente," said John earlier this year.

Rennes chief Creachcadec says Man Utd target M'Vila will only go for massive money

Rennes chief Jean-François Creachcadec feels a move to England next summer is likely for Yann M'Vila.

The midfielder is a target for Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal and Creachcadec says no Italian club can now afford him.

He told TMW: "He's a player of very high technical value and therefore his economic value is also high. In the summer we received a big offer from England, but it arrived too late.

"Next summer we will be ready to consider reasonable proposals.

"Italy? No one can afford him, for figures and value."

Man Utd following Borussia Dortmund defender Subotic

Manchester United are being linked with Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic.

Subotic has been a long-term target for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who has pumped skipper Nemanja Vidic for information on his Serbia teammate.

Italian media sources say United are lining up a €20 million bid for Subotic.

Interestingly, United chief scout Martin Ferguson was in Italy last week to see Udinese centre-half Mehdi Benatia in action.

Krasic prefers Premier League option

Juventus winger Milos Krasic wants a move to England, admits agent Dejan Joksimovic.

Joksimovic has confirmed the summer interest of Chelsea and Manchester City, while Manchester United are also following his situation.

The agent revealed: "At the moment we have offers from Russian and Turkish clubs. However, Russia is not the top priority for us. In Turkey, Milos could play later, in two or three years.

"Of greatest interest for us are the strong clubs from England, Spain, Italy, and Germany.

"The chances are strong that he will leave Turing during the next transfer window."

Fletcher reveals growing Scholes coaching influence

Darren Fletcher has revealed Paul Scholes is heavily involved in coaching at the club.

Although he's taken on a role with the reserves, the Ginger Prince still finds the time to tutor United’s senior stars.

Fletcher revealed: "Scholes is always there.

"He is working with the reserves and joins in the odd session with us too.

"He is part of the back-room staff and sometimes the reserves mingle with the first team and Scholes is part of that as well."

Peterborough chiefs admit Ferguson keen on Ryan Bennett

Peterborough United boss Darren Ferguson admits Manchester United are tracking defender Ryan Bennett.

England Under-21 international Bennett joined the Posh from Grimsby Town in 2009 and has emerged as one of the Championship's most promising defenders.

Darren Ferguson told Posh TV: "I spoke to my dad and he likes Ryan Bennett, always has. I can understand the interest.

"It's no secret that a lot of clubs are looking at Ryan. I'm staying silent on who exactly is interested, but unless we get a massive offer there is no way the chairman would sell.

"We'll ignore the speculation and get on with our jobs. Ryan is a sensible lad who won't be affected by any of the speculation."

Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony also suggested on Twitter that Manchester United were in the hunt.

"Had an interesting chat with gaffer. Seems his 'pops' could be in the mix with other clubs for a certain player," he Tweeted.

"But Posh has never been a selling club under me unless it's what's needed so relax all!"

Beckham: Man City no chance of winning title

 David Beckham says current league leaders Manchester City have no chance of winning this year’s Premier League title. 

Currently on post-season tour with the Galaxy in Asia, Beckham told reporters that he feels former club Manchester United will end up holding the silverware aloft this term and not their crosstown rivals who are currently five points clear at the top.

"I don't think Manchester City have a chance," Beckham said.

"This season they have got a good team and some good players, but Manchester United have more experience and know how to win a championship."

Man Utd watching Schalke left-back Christian Fuchs

Manchester United are interested in Schalke left-back Christian Fuchs.

The Daily Mail says United scouts have been following Fuchs' progress this season.

The 25 year-old Austria international has been an impressive performer for the Bundesliga club this term and has been linked with several European clubs.

Man Utd ready to launch bid for AZ star Rasmus Elm

Manchester United are ready to launch a bid for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Rasmus Elm in January.

The Daily Star says Elm caught Ferguson's eye when Sweden played England at Wembley earlier this month.

Fergie is facing a midfield crisis after revealing Anderson will be sidelined until next year.

The Brazilian star has jetted to Portugal to undergo a knee operation that will rule him out until February at the earliest.

Man Utd seek Khedira info from Real Madrid

Sir Alex Ferguson is eyeing Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira.

Ferguson feels his midfield is missing defensive steel and has Khedira under consideration, says Kicker.

The Germany international has been in and out of Real's first team this season and has struggled for regular football since last summer's arrival.

Ferguson says buying midfielder would block Cleverley development

 Sir Alex Ferguson admits he doesn't want to block the progress of Tom Cleverley by signing a new midfielder.

Ferguson knew that replacing the retired Paul Scholes would take some time, but he has faith in his policy of promoting from within.

"When you lose a player of Scholes' brilliance, there's a 'time lapse' which allows someone to emerge from the youth or reserve team, or to come back from a loan spell," he explained.

"Cleverley was at Wigan last year and also had spells at Leicester and Watford. He gained maturity from being on loan and we have to wait on and trust that."

Scunthorpe midfielder Norwood happy Man Utd watching his progress

Scunthorpe United midfielder Oliver Norwood is happy knowing parent club Manchester United are watching him.

United have been keeping tabs on Norwood with Paul Scholes checking on the midfielder during last month's draw with Huddersfield where he scored his first goal for Scunthorpe with a stunning long-range effort.

He told skysports.com: "The gaffer sent Scholes to watch me against Huddersfield when I scored my first goal and it was nice him being there.

"Warren Joyce [reserve team manager] follows the lads on loan and I am sure he reports back to the gaffer and he is the one that makes the decisions."

Man Utd to recall Brady from Hull and send him to Premier League rival

Manchester United may recall Robbie Brady from his loan at Hull City and send him to a Premier League rival in January.

Brady is also on course for a contract extension at United.

The midfielder has shone at Championship side Hull this season and has revealed that United have big plans for him in the New Year.

Brady has a year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford and is set to step up negotiations on a new deal in January after Alex Ferguson assured him that he is part of the club's future.

Peterborough boss Ferguson: Tunnicliffe may b****r off

Peterborough United boss Darren Ferguson admits he needs to continue playing Ryan Tunnicliffe to keep hold of the Manchester United midfielder.

Ferguson admits he wants to extend the youngster's loan.

But he told a fans' forum: “That’s in my hands really. If I play him, he’ll stay. If not, he’ll probably b****r off.”

Ferguson: We were never in for Sneijder

 Martin Ferguson say they've never made a serious play for Wesley Sneijder.

The Inter Milan star has claimed he came close to joining United in the summer - while he continues to be linked with a switch ahead of the January market.

But Ferguson insisted on Sky Italia: "We've never thought of taking him to Manchester United."

Man Utd compete with Real Madrid for Laredo teen Javier Gonzalez

Manchester United are chasing Spanish teen Javier Gonzalez.

The Mirror says the 15-year-old has scored 20 goals in seven games for fourth division club Laredo's youth team and now has United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Barcelona after him.

Real and the Gunners are believed to have offered trials, while United are desperate to do a deal.

Chelsea have launched a new scouting network in Spain and are watching developments.

Ferguson: Difficult to shop in Serie A

Chief scout Martin Ferguson admits they find it difficult signing established Serie A players.

Ferguson has been a regular at Italian grounds this season, taking in games featuring Fiorentina, Udinese, Palermo and Napoli.

But he conceded on Sky Italia: "Trying to pick up players from Italy is always difficult.

"Who can you get there when you're talking about Sneijder and others ..."

Galatasaray tell Berbatov to drop personal demands

Galatasaray are locked in talks with striker Dimitar Berbatov.

Fanatik says Gala remain keen, but not at the terms demanded by United nor the player.

United are willing to sell Berba in January for £10 million, while the Bulgarian is seeking a multi-season deal worth £5 million-a-year.

Gala have pulled back from negotiations with officials believing the terms too rich for a player over 30 years of age.

Evra: I thank God I’m playing for Manchester United

Patrice Evra admits Manchester United's youngsters have him constantly looking over his shoulder.

Evra is battling the likes of Fabio da Silva to keep his place at left-back.

And he told Chinese fans in a Q&A: "To always be fit and play at your highest level, because at United if you play just a normal game you can find yourself on the bench: someone’s always ready to replace you. That’s why I know I have to work hard every day to fight for my place – even if I’m playing every game.

"The day I stop working hard, Sir Alex will put me on the bench. I know this, which is why I wake up feeling lucky every day and I thank God I’m playing for Manchester United."

Ferguson: My midfield not as bad as people say

 Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed claims his midfield is short of quality.

Ferguson announced Anderson would be missing until February yesterday.

"We are not as bad as people think," said Ferguson.

"Ryan Giggs gives you experience. Michael Carrick had a bit of a problem with his Achilles in the early season but he is over that now and his form in the last two games has been outstanding.

"Darren Fletcher, given the right preparation, is always a very good player for us.

"But getting Cleverley back at Christmas time would be a bonus because he is such a clever footballer."

Young: Brother Kyle at Arsenal better than me

Ashley Young has again admitted kid brother Kyle could be something special.

Young has two young brothers making their way in the game.

Lewis Young, 22, is at Northampton Town, while Kyle Young, 15, is coming through the academy at Arsenal.

"He may well be the best of all of us," says his older sibling to the Daily Mail. "I wouldn’t tell him that, though, because he spends enough time saying it himself."

The players forcing themselves in and out of Manchester United's first choice starting XI

Manchester United recorded their fifth win in a row with a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Swansea City on Saturday that keeps Sir Alex Ferguson's side five points behind neighbours Manchester City.

Javier Hernandez's strike in the 11th minute secured the three points for the Premier League title holders in a pragmatic performance that lacked any sort of rhythm in the final third.

United have completely gone into their shell since their sparkling early season form was halted with a bang by the 6-1 thrashing at the hands of City on October 23. At first, it appeared to be by instruction from Ferguson as he looked to tighten up the defence, but now some players appear to be playing with no freedom or confidence at all.

United are picking up points and can look forward to a relatively kind fixture list until well after the Christmas period, so Ferguson will be content with his team's response to the derby defeat.

But the Scot will constantly be thinking about his first-choice starting XI and must now be wondering whether he knows what he best team is. Injuries to Ashley Young, Tom Cleverley and Anderson have not helped matters, but some players appear to have lost all their confidence while others are taking the opportunity to stake a claim for more regular starts.

Look at who has been playing their way in and out of the side in recent weeks...

THE DEAD CERTS

David de Gea

The £18.3 million Spaniard's shaky start to life at Manchester United is long forgotten and he produced yet another confident display in the victory at Swansea. While De Gea still has areas of his game which can improve – not least his handling of high crosses – there is no doubt that he is the club's No. 1 goalkeeper at the moment. His distribution and shot-stopping ability are both outstanding while his concentration is improving by the game. The 21-year-old made a fine save to deny Scott Sinclair just after half-time on Saturday.

Wayne Rooney

The 26-year-old remains United's most important player and he looked his usual composed self against Swansea after returning to his best role in behind lone striker Hernandez. The goals have dried up recently, but that's because he has been asked to play in a different way by Sir Alex, perhaps the best reference point for the side's change in emphasis from attack to defence. Rooney's quality on the ball is still there to see, even in second gear, and had United needed another goal he would have been the first to take on the extra responsibility.

Nemanja Vidic

The United captain upset his manager by reporting for international duty with Serbia in September and was in and out of the team in the early part of the season. Sir Alex, however, appears to have learned the error of his ways after leaving the stopper out of the matchday squad for the disastrous Manchester derby. Vidic has played 90 minutes in four of the five matches since the derby defeat, only missing the Champions League tie against Otelul Galati for which he was suspended. It is no coincidence that United have kept a clean sheet in each of those games.

AT RISK

Patrice Evra

The most worrying thing for United is that the French left-back's poor form is nothing new and has in fact being ongoing for more than a year. Against Swansea, he once again looked miles off the pace and was nowhere near the nippy, tricky Nathan Dyer. After picking up a booking for a late challenge on the Swansea winger, Evra was hauled off by Sir Alex in the 51st minute because he looked likely to pick up a second booking. To put Evra's performance into context, Fabio dealt far better with Dyer's threat and is also dangerous in attack.

Darren Fletcher

The Scot is struggling to get back to the level he set before being laid low by a mystery virus in the final months of last season. He is busy and hardworking, but lacks the bite to take control of the midfield even against the lesser sides. Fletcher came on against Swansea and did an effective job as an extra body in midfield but needs to add more drive to his game to become a regular starter.

Phil Jones

Jones is only 19 and destined for stardom, but his many qualities must be tempered by the fact he still has much to learn. He can make some brilliant tackles and has the pace and strength to become a commanding Premier League defender for many years, while he will excite fans with his marauding runs. On Saturday, he hit the post after a bustling forward run but that should not deflect attention from his positioning errors, not least for the golden opportunity that Sinclair missed. Not for the first time in his United career, Jones appeared to switch off and showed very little awareness, something that will doubtless improve with experience.

Nani

Along with fellow winger Ashley Young, the Portuguese flyer dazzled in the early part of the season as United ripped opposing teams apart. Lately, however, he has been a virtual passenger for United and that was again the case at the Liberty Stadium. Nani is capable of popping up with a moment of magic but he has been nowhere near the form that saw him voted as United's player of the year last season.

PUSHING THEIR CASE

Michael Carrick

The 30-year-old will never be a leading light for United but he played his way back into contention with a functional, efficient performance against Swansea. Carrick does not snap into tackles but his positioning and defensive reading of the game is excellent, meaning he breaks up opposition attacks by nicking possession or making interceptions. On the ball, he is less ambitious than when he first arrived at Old Trafford but is unerringly accurate and always looks to play forward. 

Fabio

The Brazilian youngster took his chance after replacing Evra on Saturday and pushed his claim for a starting spot in the crucial Champions League clash against Benfica on Tuesday. Tends to dive into tackles too readily but has excellent pace, tenacity and courage while possessing a threat in attack.

Rio Ferdinand

The former England captain has responded in the best possible manner to Ferguson's warning at the  start of this month that he needs to adapt his game. Now 33, Ferdinand has lost a yard of pace but remains one of the most intelligent defenders around and has proved that with a string of impressive displays. His partnership with Vidic was the rock on which United's title triumph was founded last season and the pair have always worked well together. He even outshone Vidic against Swansea with a commanding display that included some vital blocks and interceptions.

Sir Alex Ferguson: Phil Jones can handle pressure

 Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed defender Phil Jones and insists that the youngster can handle the pressure that goes with his position at the club.

The 19-year-old moved to Old Trafford during the summer and has since put in strong performances at club level, earning a call-up to the England team for the recent international friendlies against Spain and Sweden.

The former Blackburn Rovers defender played in both games and helped the Three Lions keep clean sheets on both occasions, with manager Fabio Capello singling him out for special praise by comparing him to AC Milan legend Franco Baresi.

Now the Red Devils boss, Sir Alex, maintains that the youngster can stand tall against the pressure of expectation that is descending on his shoulders.

"I don’t think putting pressure on him is a big worry. Not at this club," Sir Alex said, according to The Sunday Mirror.

"You don’t need to put unnecessary ­pressure on him, but I think he’ll find his own way all right.

"It’s difficult to make comparisons with other players. He’s a ­dynamic player, he’s quick, he’s two-footed.

"He’s got a great attitude to playing and he’ll be a good player.

"It certainly helps a young player’s ­education to play different positions - if he can do it. And he can. Centre-half will probably be his best position eventually."

Talk of Jones' leadership qualities may prompt speculation that he could potentially inherit the captain's armband at United. But Sir Alex quickly nipped that in the bud, adding: "He’s got leadership ­qualities and that kind of thing, but he could play anywhere. It’s too early to talk about captaincy. That’s the kind of pressure he doesn’t need.

"He’s only 19."

Manchester United's next game is asgainst Benfica in the Champions League, when they will look to maintain their unbeaten record in Group C. The two sides meet at Old Trafford on Tuesday, knowing that even a victory will not mathematically guarantee progression unless Basel drop points against Otelul Galati.

"It’s very close between the two of us and Basel," said the Scot. 

"We do know we have to win on ­Tuesday. It’s always a bonus to top the group, but the most important thing is to qualify."

Ferdinand puts talk of new deal on hold as defender fights for Manchester United future

Rio Ferdinand will put lingering doubts over his long-term Manchester United future to one side until the end of the season as he fights for his Old Trafford life. 

The central defender's club and international career has been the subject of intense scrutiny in recent weeks. 

Sir Alex Ferguson recently confessed Ferdinand is no longer a first-choice at the heart of his back four, while England boss Fabio Capello has omitted the defender from his previous three squads.

Privately, Ferdinand, 33, acknowledges he is facing a fight after the emergence of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans. 

But the veteran defender remains determined to prolong his United career despite the recent upheaval.

Ferdinand started Saturday's 1-0 win at Swansea. 

It was only the second time in 2011 he has managed to start three games in a row for United.

Ferdinand has 18 months left to run on his current contract, but it is understood he will put any plans to discuss his future beyond the existing deal on hold until the summer. 

The England defender is desperate to stay at Old Trafford for the rest of his career as he looks to cement his United legacy. 

However, if Ferguson indicates his first-team chances will be severely limited next season then sources close to Ferdinand insist he will give serious consideration to leaving.

Ferdinand will be 35 when his current deal expires and has conceded that any contract extension is likely to be on a 12-month rolling basis  - similar to what Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes have been handed in the past.

Ferdinand will not be short of offers if it is decided that he should end his United career at the end of the season. 

MLS side Chicago Fire and two of Qatar's richest sides Lekhwiya and Al Sadd are both keen on the defender

Why Man Utd boss Ferguson regrets not signing Tottenham's Parker in August

Sir Alex Ferguson has to be having second thoughts about not going for Scott Parker during the summer.

Admission that Tom Cleverley's injury is worse than first feared only exacerbates the problems in midfield the Manchester United manager needs to confront. The energy and mobility Cleverley - and Ashley Young - added to United in the early part of the season masked problems so exposed by Barcelona in the Champions League final last season - and later exploited by Manchester City in that derby drubbing.

There's been plenty said about the creative void left by Paul Scholes, but Ferguson also lacks a ball-winner. Cleverley was able to cover both shortcomings, but United haven’t played with the same pace and snap since Bolton Wanderers captain Kevin Davies took him out at Old Trafford. Ferguson's midfield has looked pedestrian, their build-up laboured and the final pass virtually non-existent. The players are still good enough to challenge for the title in England, but against Champions League opposition - and City - United's flaws have been exposed.

That Ferguson chose to ignore finding a solution over the summer now risks coming back to haunt him - on and off the pitch.

With the January market looming, the Manchester United manager now faces a huge dilemma - which could've been avoided if he'd pull the trigger on Parker before the former West Ham United midfielder had signed with Tottenham.

When winning the prestigious Golden Foot last month, Ryan Giggs was asked by Italian journalists about his former United teammate Giuseppe Rossi. Giggs admitted during Rossi's time at Old Trafford there was little chance of Ferguson keeping the now Villarreal striker happy with the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy ahead of him.

And this is dilemma that again confronts the United manager.

The talk is Inter Milan now need to sell Wesley Sneijder to fund their planned overhaul and have been actively encouraging Ferguson to try again after a frustrating summer in pursuit. Benfica midfielder Nicolas Gatian, Lille's Eden Hazard and now Ajax whizkid Christian Eriksen have all been mentioned as potential solutions to United's creative problem. Then there's Rennes' powerhouse Yann M'Vila, who is greatly admired by Ferguson and would fit perfectly in a midfield lacking genuine defensive steel.

But should any of these candidates arrive, with the pressure of a massive price-tag guaranteeing them an extended chance to prove themselves, where will that leave the clutch of young midfielders which Ferguson has not shied away from talking up since the start of the season?

United staff say they haven't seen a talent like Ravel Morrison since Scholes, Ryan Tunnicliffe is pulling up trees at Peterborough United, Paul Pogba's departure on-loan was blocked by Ferguson as he sees him as first team material - and then you have the fit-again Daniele Petrucci, back after a broken leg and who has been likened to Francesco Totti, plus Robbie Brady, doing so well at Hull City.

The arrival of a 27 year-old Sneijder, or an even younger M'Vila or Eriksen isn't going to go down well with players like Pogba, who is now in the middle of protracted talks over a new deal.

Everything could have been solved if Ferguson had gone for Parker.

As he's shown for club and country, Parker has been dynamic at both ends of the pitch this season. With England he's primarily been employed in a holding role, while at Spurs the former Hammers man is high up the table in terms of assists. And against Spain, he proved himself well capable of matching it with the game's very best.

Parker could've solved both problems weighing heavily on United’s midfield and at 31, would not have appeared a threat to the youngsters now expecting a first team chance.

Ferguson hasn't been against signing veterans in the past. Henrik Larsson is the obvious example, but there's been others. Gines Carvajal's revelation that Ferguson tried to sign Raul last year before he joined Schalke is proof the United manager will go for an OAP when he feels it necessary.

But his failure to make a move for Parker has now handed him a huge dilemma. Can United risk waiting for the likes of Pogba, Petrucci and Morrison to prove their value. Or do they now splash out millions on a Sneijder and/or M'Vila - and so force these youngsters to look elsewhere to launch their senior careers?

After 25 years in the job, it's another massive question Ferguson needs to get right for the good of Manchester United.

Welbeck presses ahead with plans to sign new treble-your-money deal

Manchester United have been handed a huge boost after it emerged Danny Welbeck intends to sign a new five-year contract. 

The Premier League champions are desperate to tie the England international down to a longer deal having seen him flourish in the early part of the campaign. 

Welbeck has just 18 months left on his current deal and earns a fraction of that of his other first team stars. But in his new terms the 20-year-old will treble his wages to £45,000 a week.

Welbeck, who spent last season on loan at Sunderland, will follow the likes of Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley and Javier Hernandez in committing their futures to United.

The Sun reports that the striker's new deal will include incremental rises that could ultimately reach £65,000 a week if he hits appearance and goal targets.

Welbeck has forced his way above £30.75million man Dimitar Berbatov, with the Bulgarian himself out of contract at the same time as the young pretender to his place.

Jones splashes out £130k on sports car

Phil Jones has celebrated his fast start to the season by forking out £130,000 on an Aston Martin.

The former Blackburn player, 19, has established himself in United's first team this season after a £16.5million summer move.

And Jones is clearly getting used to life in the fast lane. He now has the wheels to match those of his United team-mates after snapping up the V12 Vantage in Wilmslow, Cheshire.

Jones made his England debut last month against Montenegro and has already picked up three caps in what promises to be a long international career.

He will hope his new motor is as versatile as he is - Jones has played at right back, centre back and in central midfield already in his fledgling United career.

Vidic: Man City will suffer just like Chelsea

Nemanja Vidic is sure rivals Manchester City will come unstuck.

Vidic has warned City they don't hand out the trophies in November.

"We will think about what they are going to do," said the defender, "but only if they are five points ahead of us with six games to go.

"You can see what I mean from last year. In the first seven or eight games Chelsea played unbelievably.

"But there was also a time when everything is not going well. It’s a ten-month season and you can’t always play great football.

"There will be good days and bad days but you have to play as a team.

"For that reason, we aren’t thinking about them. We still have to play them and they still have to play the top four or five others as well.

"So, we aren’t thinking about them, because that’s not the way we are going to win the league."