Fergie denies Sneijder story

Sir Alex Ferguson has rejected claims that he is nearing a deal to bring Wesley Sneijder to Manchester United. Quotes attributed to Ferguson released overnight by the Mail on Sunday suggested talks had taken place, with Ferguson reported to have said: "If he wants to come, he must accept our contract offer. If not we have other options in mind. We are done talking." But Ferguson has since denied the story, and said: "Absolute nonsense. I have never discussed him. There is nothing new." Ferguson is clearly unhappy with the story and emphasised his desire to find a replacement for Paul Scholes from within his present squad by talking up the performance of England Under-21 midfielder Tom Cleverley in the 2-1 friendly win over Barcelona on Saturday night. "It an area we have to find a solution for," he said. "That is why we played Tom Cleverley today. Physically he is not the strongest but he is wiry and has a great idea of the game. "He is a good footballer and was our best player today. "His discipline was terrific. He is a quick passer of the ball. He has good eyes. "It was a big night for him. He is a big, strong possibility for us to start the season."

Source: PA