United's £10million Carrick Bid Rejected

Carrick to MUFC?
By Chris O'Brien
June 10 2006

Manchester United have seen an initial £10million bid for Michael Carrick turned down by Spurs boss Martin Jol. Sir Alex Ferguson has targeted the England international to fill the midfield void left by Roy Keane's departure.

Manchester United have seen a £10million bid for Michael Carrick rejected by Tottenham Hotspur.

There is no secret of the fact that a new midfield tops Sir Alex Ferguson's wish list for the summer. Having failed in an attempt to land German international Michael Ballack, the club have clearly turned their attention to Carrick as they look to fill the void left by Roy Keane's sudden departure last season.

The 24-year-old is currently in Germany with the England squad. Such speculation and uncertainty surrounding his immediate future is unlikely to help the player's form. However, it is easy to see why he is in demand following a superb season in the 'engine room' at White Hart Lane, with Carrick's form a key factor in Tottenham's excellent form on the pitch which saw them just 90 minutes away from Champions League qualification.

"We can confirm we have rejected a bid from Manchester United for Michael Carrick." read an official statement from Spurs.

"Michael Carrick is a player we are not looking to sell."

Reports, nevertheless, suggest that Spurs will be tempted to accept an increased offer for the club. Sources suggest that the North London club are labelled their midfield talisman with a £15million price tag, but United are unlikely to offer anymore than £12million for the player, who has two years remaining on his current contract.