Man Utd defender Ferdinand impressed by progress of MLS

02.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United defenderRio Ferdinand is looking forward to their preseason tour of the USA.

Ferdinand admits he's impressed by the progress of MLS in recent years.

"We always enjoy going over to play in America," Rio told MUTV.

"MLS is doing very well now and more and more people are aware of it over here. They’ve had some big players come over from Europe to play there as well like Becks, Freddie Ljungberg and Thierry Henry.

"The facilities are fantastic and it’s great to be able to visit new places when you go on tour. I'm sure it’ll be a good trip and we're all looking forward to it."

Scunthorpe concede Man Utd striker Ajose out of reach

02.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Scunthorpe United boss Alan Knill admits a deal forManchester United striker Nicky Ajose is out of their range.

Ajose scored 13 goals while on loan at Knill's previous club, Bury, last season, prompting the boss to move for him once more.

However, he has been unable to replicate a similar deal to bring the young striker to Glanford Park.

"We believe that Nicky is probably going to go elsewhere, to the Championship," Knill admitted to the Scunthorpe Telegraph.

"Good luck to him. I have always said he is a good player. The good thing is that we have been part of his development.

"That is our job to help players achieve their potential."

Man Utd legend Neville expects Ferguson to continue transfer spending

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United legend Gary Neville believesSir Alex Ferguson's transfer spending is not yet over.

Phil Jones was the first of United’s three summer signings so far, with the club also agreeing deals withAston Villa for Ashley Young andAtletico Madrid for David de Gea.

Neville isn’t convinced the spending will stop there, though. He told The New Paper that he’s expecting at least one more signing.

“I think the manager will sign a central midfielder because of Owen Hargreaves leaving and Paul Scholes retiring,” he said.

As for who that player might be, Gary admits he doesn’t have a clue, just as he has always been kept in the dark around transfers.

“The club keep transfers very quiet because they don’t want other clubs to be aware that they’re moving for somebody. They don’t even tell the players, they don’t tell the staff… it’s done very quietly.”

Championship clubs queue for Man Utd striker Ajose

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United striker Nicky Ajose is attracting Championship club interest.

He spent much of last season on loan at Bury but Shakers manager Richie Barker fears there's no chance of a repeat loan or a permanent deal.

Barker said: "From what I can gather, Nicky Ajose is on the possible brink of a move to the Championship that involves a lot of money."

Evra excited by Man Utd boss Ferguson transfer market work

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra is delighted with the transfer business performed by managersir Alex Ferguson.

Phil Jones was the first of United’s three summer signings so far, with the club also agreeing deals withAston Villa for Ashley Young andAtletico Madrid for David de Gea.

"They are great signings," said United defender Evra yesterday.

"I am very confident about the future. We hope to retain the title but also to win the Champions League."

West Brom ready to close deal for Man Utd keeper Kuszczak

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester Unitedgoalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak is set for an emotional return to West Bromwich Albion.

The Sun says Baggies bossRoy Hodgson is lining up a £2.5million bid for Manchester United goalkeeper Kuszczak as Scott Carson heads for the West Brom exit.

Hodgson will move to bring former Albion star Kuszczak back to The Hawthorns.

Carson's £2m move to Turks Bursaspor will go through in the next 48 hours.

Man Utd defender O’Shea happy to move to Sunderland next week

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United defender John O'Shea is set to joinSunderland.

The Guardian says O'Shea is expected to sign for Sunderland early next week.

United manager Sir Alex Fergusonagreed to sell the Irishman, as well as Wes Brown and Darron Gibson, to the Wearside club last month.

O'Shea is the first of the three players to accept a deal.

Neville strengthens ties with passionate Malta Man Utd supporters branch

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United legend Gary Neville has strengthened his relationship with the club's Malta supporters' branch.

The Mirror says guests at a testimonial dinner for Neville almost choked on their desserts when they were serenaded… with a song made famous by arch-rivals Manchester City .

More than 1,200 fans paid £75 a head for the five-course feast in Malta, but were amazed when the entertainer launched into Blue Moon.

But Neville, 36, who retired last season, cheered them up by vowing to buy the island’s supporters club for them.

He said: “I want to do something for fans, in Malta and Manchester. I will deliver the club so you own it for ever.”

Man City threaten to wreck Man Utd boss Ferguson plans for Nasri deal

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester City are attempting to trumpManchester United for Arsenalace Samir Nasri.

United boss Alex Ferguson was prompted to start talks for Nasri once City declared their interest after losing out on Alexis Sanchez, says The Sun.

Now City are planning the first big move for Nasri, who has a year left on his contract after arriving in a £15.8m move from Marseille three years ago.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had been adamant that he was desperate to keep the player and would not sell to United.

But Nasri, 24, has refused to sign a contract extension, demanding assurances that Arsenalare ready to compete again with United and Chelsea by bringing in big signings. But they were not forthcoming.

Arsenal can cash in now - or risk losing Nasri for nothing at the end of next season.

Man Utd legend Albiston confident fans will get behind new trio

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United hero Arthur Albiston has no doubt fans will get behind their new signings.

Phil Jones was the first of United’s three summer signings so far, with the club also agreeing deals withAston Villa for Ashley Young andAtletico Madrid for David de Gea.

Albiston told ManUtd.com: “Our supporters are renowned for giving people time. Of course, there’s nothing they like more than watching young players come through the United ranks into the first team but they’ll have similar feelings about Jones and de Gea, given they’re only 19 and 20.

“The fans at Old Trafford have loads of patience with new players coming to the club, especially young ones, and they’ll get behind them.

“Everyone’s going to make the odd mistake but our fans are very forgiving. I’m sure Peter Schmeichel would hold his hand up to one or two mistakes in his first season. That’s something that goes with the territory.

“The crowd will give de Gea, Jones and Young every backing and if the new boys perform as well as Javier Hernandez and Chris Smalling did in their first season, I’m sure the supporters and the manager will all be delighted.”

Sunderland seek talks with Man Utd defender Brown

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Sunderland are seeking talks with Manchester Uniteddefender Wes Brown.

The Daily Mail says Sunderlandhave completed a £5million deal for Birmingham's Craig Gardner and hope to talk to Manchester United defender Brown today.

Brown is available from United and is also interesting Everton.

Man Utd fullback Evra admits he wants Champions League revenge

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra admits avenging their Champions League final defeat is a priority next season.

Evra has welcomed the club's new signings, Phil Jones, Ashley Young and David De Gea.

He said: "After we lost the Champions League final, I said we had lost just a game.

"But I'm confident about the future, especially with our great new signings, and I think we are going to win it next year.

"We hope to retain the title, but also to win the Champions League."

Man City leave Arsenal contract rebel Nasri to Man Utd

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester City will NOT be moving for Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri.

The Guardian says City are confident that the Arsenal left-back Gaël Clichy will become their first signing of the summer, but they have distanced themselves from reports that they are also trying to persuadeArsenal into a £20m deal for Nasri.

The two clubs have agreed a £7m fee for Clichy and the player is expected to arrive in Manchester early next week. But there have been no high-level talks about Nasri's potential availability and none are planned.

Nasri, who has been prominently linked with a move to Manchester United, has one year left on his contract and City are monitoring him as a possible back-up option for later in the summer. However, their interest has never gone beyond that point and City are bemused by reports they have been closing in on a deal with the player's agent and club.

Arsenal boss Wenger hoping AC Milan make offer for Man Utd target Nasri

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is hoping AC Milan firm up their interest for Samir Nasri.

The Telegraph says he is unlikely to sanction the departure of Nasri to another Premier League club if he has already lost Fabregas.

Sources in Italy have also confirmed the interest of AC Milan in Nasri and, while Wenger has still not given up hope of persuading the 24 year-old to sign a new contract, he would be more comfortable with one of his most prized assets moving to a club outside of England.

Nasri has entered the final year of his contract and so could potentially leave for nothing next summer. It places Arsenal in a difficult position, particularly as Manchester United are believed to be preparing an offer of £20 million. Manchester City’s interest in Nasri is likely to develop if they fail to sign Alexis Sánchez from Udinese.

Agent: No Man Utd move for Napoli striker Cavani

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

The agent of Edinson Cavani has played down talk of a move to Manchester Unitedfor the Napoli striker.

Manchester United are just one of a string of top clubs to have been linked with the prolific Uruguayan, but the 24 year-old's agent has dismissed any talk of a move.

"This is the time of year when it is normal to hear talk of transfers to big clubs for astronomical fees," Claudio Anellucci told Radio Sportiva.

"The majority of the time there is nothing to them, as is the case with regards to a possible move to Manchester United for Edinson."

Arsenal lining up SHOCK bid for Man Utd defender O’Shea

01.07.11 | tribalfootball.com

Arsenal are considering a SHOCK move forManchester United defender John O'Shea.

The Mirror says O'Shea, 30, was told this summer that he can leave United after 12 years.

The Republic of Ireland international is not interested in joining Sunderland, who expressed interest a fortnight ago and also want United's Darron Gibson.

But O'Shea has been made aware ofArsenal's interest and sources close to the player say he will consider a move to London.

O'Shea was initially going to be a makeweight in a Manchester United push to lure Arsenalace Samir Nasri to Old Trafford.

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Football greats good example for young people

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United bossSir Alex Ferguson says the game's greats are an example to young people entering the workforce.

The 69-year-old was made a Doctor of the University of Stirling at a ceremony yesterday afternoon.

Addressing a crowd of new graduates who had just picked up their degrees, he spoke of the importance of retaining the values which Charlton and Busby stood for.

He said: "I've had many honours. I still appreciate what Stirling University has done for me today, making me a Doctor. I appreciate that, as do all my family. Don't take it lightly, it's a great honour to be appreciated.

"I say this standing here before you with many honours behind me. It doesn't change me. Don't change. No-one respects it.

"I've great examples of that in my own club. Bobby Charlton and Matt Busby were fantastic examples of that. Throughout their lives they kept their feet on the ground. They were the same people, they had humility. It's a fantastic quality to have.

"Working hard is also a fantastic quality. It's not easy to work hard all your life."

Ferguson also praised the "infectious enthusiasm" shown by another football legend, Sir Bobby Robson, throughout his life.

He said: "It got to you, you couldn't miss it. Don't ever under-estimate enthusiasm and enjoy working hard. It's a great quality. Wherever you go remember these things."

Man Utd striker Owen welcomes De Gea arrival

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United strikerMichael Owen has welcomed the arrival of new goalkeeper David De Gea.

De Gea officially joined United yesterday from Atletico Madrid.

Owen tweeted: "I'm sure he will be a massive success."

Ex-Tottenham keeper Keller warns Man Utd of Seattle Sounders test

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Former Tottenham andLeicester City goalkeeper Kaser Keller is ready to faceManchester United for theSeattle Sounders.

Seattle have been playing in front of crowds averaging over 36,000 and there may not be the usual frenzied support for the tourists that United often enjoy in such friendlies.

"What is nice for us is that when United come here, they are going to be the away team," Keller stressed to the official programme for the match. "They're not going to come here and have more support than us.

"It's a great standard that we've set in MLS to host these games and to have our team supported as the home team. It's something that Manchester United will know when they leave here. It's going to be a great showcase for us and MLS."

Fiorentina prospect Gollini keen on Man Utd move

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Fiorentina prospect Pierluigi Gollini is eyeing a move toManchester United.

TMW says Gollini is considering a move from Fiorentina to United.

The Italy Under-17 keeper could follow the path trod by Michele Fornasier in the past but his team-mates Saverio Madrigali and Leonardo Capezzi are tipped to join Luca Lezzerini in committing their future to the Viola.

Man Utd boss Ferguson impressed by Scottish midfielders

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United bossSir Alex Ferguson feels there's improvements being made in Scottish football.

It's 13 years since the Scots qualified for a major tournament.

Ferguson said: "There is an effort in Scotland to progress, there's no question about that.

"You're seeing it in the national team now where they've a collection of good midfielders.

"So there is progress being made and that's only through the work that's been done over the last few years because the foundations are laid when a kid is four, five, six years of age. I think that is something that's improving."

Chelsea boss AVB will not take pop at Man Utd rival Ferguson

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas says he won't seek a battle with Manchester Unitedcounterpart Sir Alex Ferguson.

Yesterday, Villas-Boas was asked if he'll take Rafa Benitez's lead and have a pop at Fergie.

"I have the utmost respect for Sir Alex," Villas-Boas said.

"I'm not a confrontational guy."

He added: "It's not just a question of me taking on Sir Alex or the other Premier League managers.

"It's a question of a top club like Chelsea challenging for the title again.

"Last year, we ended on a very good run to threaten for the title in the last couple of games.

"I want us to be up there at the beginning."

Arsenal legend McLintock takes aim at Nasri over Man Utd, Man City rumours

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Former Arsenal captain Frank McLintock has taken aim at Samir Nasri.

Manchester United andManchester City are chasing Nasri as he baulks at signing new terms with the Gunners.

McLintock told talkSPORT: “Nasri’s [desire to move] is a bit of a disappointment.

“He had a good start to the season last year and looked an excellent player and if he goes, as well [as Fabregas], it’s a big blow for Arsenal. They’ve tried all season to get him to sign a new contract.

“I think he’s looking for more money obviously. I don’t know what he’s on, £60-70,000 a week, and he’s looking for £110,000.”

Man Utd defender O’Shea: Rooney apologised to us after demanding move

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

John O'Shea says there was no grudge fromManchester United players against teammateWayne Rooney over his transfer bombshell last season.

In the end, Rooney signed a new contract and United went on to win the title.

United defender O'Shea recalled inChamp19ns, a book about United's record title-winning season by Steve Bartram, "It transpired it was just an interesting technique of getting a new deal," O'Shea said. "I think Wayne, if he could turn back the clock, might do things a bit differently, but both parties were happy in the end.

"He came [into the Carrington dressing room after signing his new deal] and apologised to everyone. He said he'd done what he had to do, basically, and he was sorry if he had offended anybody. Obviously there were a few comments that will stay in the dressing room. They were quite smart and funny, but all friendly."

Gill: Rooney transfer demand shocked everyone at Man Utd

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United chief David Gill admits the club was rocked by Wayne Rooney's transfer demand midway through last season.

Gill recounted the "bolt from the blue" of Rooney informing the club he wanted to leave, starting with a telephone call from the player's agent, Paul Stretford, on 14 August.

He recalled in Champ19ns, a book about United's record title-winning season by Steve Bartram, "We already had some discussions [about a new contract] going on, then I had a call indicating Wayne didn't want to sign a new deal, [that] he had some issues and didn't want to sign a new contract.

"That was the first we'd heard of it because [before then] there had been discussions going on to a timetable that had been agreed. I was pretty shocked, to be honest. I had a good working relationship with Paul Stretford, having done deals with him over a number of years and there was never any indication that this was the call he was going to make."

Rooney changed his mind after several weeks of lobbying behind the scenes – "I wouldn't say there were discussions every day but there was regular contact," Gill said

Man Utd signing De Gea: Atletico Madrid offered me new contract to stay

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Manchester United signing David De Gea admitsAtletico Madrid made him a new contract offer before he decided to move to Old Trafford.

De Gea admitted Atletico had fought to keep him at the Vicente Calderon but felt the time was right to move on.

"Atletico Madrid made an offer to renew my contract in September or October and I said that I wouldn't study it until the Under-21 European Championships finished and do it with a little more calm," said De Gea.

"In these cases it's important that your family advise you and they've done that.

"Atletico have always fought for me. I've always felt wanted, but the main reason for my going is that I want to play at Manchester (United).

"Manchester United are one of the best clubs in the world and it's an important step in my career. I'm going to do as well as possible there and try to succeed."

Man Utd hero Stepney confident De Gea will be successful

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Former Manchester Unitedgoalkeeper Alex Stepney has welcomed the arrival of David De Gea from Atletico Madrid.

With Edwin van der Sar retiring, the new arrival seems likely to be handed the number one shirt and Stepney feels he will soon pick up the language in Manchester.

"He's done very well for Atletico," Stepney told ManUtd.com. "His record last season (24 clean sheets in 45 games) is incredible in a top-class league. I've only seen him on TV and you can't tell everything about a player on TV.

"For example, I always like to see what a goalkeeper's doing position-wise when the ball's down the other end of the pitch and the cameras rarely show that. But certainly I've seen what a good shot-stopper he is and it would seem that he's going to be Sir Alex's number one.

"We've also still got Anders Lindegaard, Ben Amos and Tomasz Kuszczak on the books, of course, and one of them will have to leave, either on loan or permanently. A club likeManchester United has to have three top-class goalkeepers because if your number one gets injured, you need quality cover in the team and on the bench."

PSG yet to bid for Man Utd striker Berbatov - agent

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

The agent ofManchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov is yet to hear from PSG.

PSG have been linked with a bid for Berbatov.

Emil Dantchev said: "I heard about PSG but I want to reiterate that I have not been approach for the moment, these are just rumours. It's fiction.

"Paris Saint-Germain may be interested but there is nothing concrete now and it's useless to comment on rumours.

"He has one more year left on his contract with Manchester United and is very happy there."

Diarra will only leave Real Madrid for Man Utd

30.06.11 | tribalfootball.com

Lassana Diarra will only leaveReal Madrid forManchester United.

Defensa Central says Diarra is only interested in a move to Old Trafford and not Juventus orGalatasaray, who have tabled offers.

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is unsure about cutting loose Diarra this summer.

But the Frenchman has been unsettled by the arrival of Turkish midfield pair Nuri Sahin and Hamit Altintop.