Source: Daily_Mail
Steven Defour snubs possible move to Manchester United
No thanks: Defour has been linked with the Barclays Premier League but has signed a new deal at Leige[LNB]Manchester United target Steven Defour has abandoned his hopes of landing a dream move to Old Trafford after signing a new long-term deal at Standard Liege.[LNB]United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was so impressed with Defour's midfield dynamism for Standard and Belgium that he sent him a get-well message, following an injury nearly two years ago.[LNB]Defour ended up in hospital after seriously damaging his foot and was amazed to open a letter containing words of encouragement from the United boss.[LNB]After returning to full fitness, he admitted he knew United were 'closely monitoring' him and confided to friends he felt ready to test himself in the Barclays Premier League.[LNB]Asscouts flocked to Standard games in ever greater numbers, with Arsenal,Liverpool, Everton and Aston Villa also expressing a keen interest, hisagent Paul Stefani declared: 'He is being watched by top clubs in England, France, Spain and Italy, and we may have a decision to make before long.'[LNB]But Standard made it clear they were reluctant to lose another top player, after selling Marouane Fellaini to Everton for ?15million, and gave him another option to consider by opening talks on extending his contract.[LNB]Defourfinally caved in to pressure from his Standard bosses and confirmed earlier on Thursday that he had signed a new deal until 2016.[LNB] Vermaelen set to make surprise return for Arsenal against Manchester United Fergie still says 'no' to Neuer deal despite Schalke keeper's wonder show MANCHESTER UNITED FC
