United Not Interested in Butt Swap Deal

By Chris O'Brien
January 14 2004

Manchester United are not interested in a swap deal for Nicky Butt, despite rumours circulating that Gareth Southgate could be on his way to Old Trafford in a straight switch with the want-away midfielder. The club want to sell Butt for a cash fee in order to raise money available for transfers.

Manchester United have ruled out that they would accept a swap deal for Nicky Butt, with the player leaving for a cash fee only.

The 28-year-old want-away midfielder has a transfer request accepted on Tuesday, and Middlesbrough and Glasgow Celtic are believed to be leading the chase to sign the England international.

Since the club reluctantly accepted Butt’s transfer request, rumours have been circulating that Butt is on his way to Riverside with Gareth Southgate going the other way in a direct swap deal.

However, United have denied that they want Butt to leave on a swap deal. The club are believed to be looking to raise transfer funds for an increased bid for Louis Saha, or for another striker meaning selling Butt for a cash fee is the likely option.

“The club is not interested in a swap deal,” said a source close to United

“That is not the path they wish to go down.”