Ferguson: Ruud going nowhere
Ferguson: Ruud going nowhere
Also In The News
|
Lilian Thuram appears to be lining up a move to Spanish giants Barcelona as Juventus' faint hopes of hanging onto the majority of their top players fade. |  |
Friday, 21, Jul 2006 09:15
Sir Alex Ferguson has said he expects Ruud Van Nistelrooy to report for pre-season training on Monday despite frenzied speculation about a move away from Old Trafford.
The Dutch centre forward has been linked with a move to European giants Real Madrid and Bayern Munich after handing in a transfer request.
But the United boss is adamant that potential buyers have to match his £15 million valuation of the 30-year-old before a deal can be completed.
In an apparent U-turn, Ferguson said he expects Van Nistelrooy back at United's Carrington training complex ahead of a crucial season.
"Ruud is not definitely leaving and I expect to see him at training on Monday," he said.
"I spoke to (chief executive) David Gill on the phone on Thursday and there is no development as far as Real Madrid is concerned."
He added: "They have made an offer, we have rejected it. That is where the situation lies."
"If they don't come back in and increase their offer, he won't be going and I would be content with that. It would not bother me one bit."
The Scot, who has not won the Premiership since 2003, cited the £29 million Chelsea splashed out for Andriy Shevchenko and the £8.5 million paid by Everton for Andrew Johnson to defend his valuation.
Ferguson has also defended himself after criticising the vast funds enjoyed by title rivals Chelsea.
"Chelsea have every right to do what is right for their club, just as we have every right to do what is right for us," he said.
I did not say their transfer policy was bad for the game. It is clearly good for Chelsea."
"But, if it is correct they are going to sign 30 African boys, you have to wonder how they are all going to get a game."
The League Cup winners face Kaizer Chiefs for the second time in a week in the Vodacom Cup final tomorrow.