Gill: Ferguson Can Splash the Cash

By David Hobbs
August 1 2005

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has confirmed the club have the financial resources to fund Sir Alex Ferguson the chance to sign a big name player.

This has prompted mammoth speculation claiming the Red Devils are favourite to land out-of-favour Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, who is set to leave the El Santiago Bernabeu.

Gill did not disclose possible transfer targets, but states the money is in the bank. "The money is there for Alex," said Gill.

"If he identifies a talent that he thinks will improve the squad - and that is the crucial thing - the funds are available.

"The Glazers have said that if there is a big player out there who is available, then the money is there to go for him.

"We can still afford a lot of money for top players and at the same time, we are also able to develop many of our own."

The Scotsman is on the lookout for a midfield general to replace Roy Keane with Michael Ballack and Michael Essien being prime transfer targets.

However, the media insist United are on the lookout for a new goal-scorer following the dry spell Ruud van Nistelrooy endured last season, who apparently needs more competition for a starting place.

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]