Football: For Sale

MANCHESTER UNITED are prepared to listen to offers for Ryan Giggs.

The Welsh international could leave Old Trafford as early as the January transfer window.

But he is more likely to leave in the summer when Bolton are expected to launch an ambitious bid to sign him.

The decision to consider offers for the 30-year-old winger is further evidence of a power struggle erupting between Sir Alex Ferguson and his board.

Ferguson is unhappy that United have refused to offer Giggs more than a one-year extension on his current deal which expires at the end of next season.

But the board feel they it would make more sense to sell Giggs, who has been at United for 16 years, and reduce their massive wage bill.

Bolton are keeping close tabs on Giggs' situation and have a good chance of closing the deal.

The player's long term boot sponsors Reebok, are the main sponsors of Bolton and can see the advantage of helping finance a deal that will see Giggs in their colours.

Bolton are likely to face competition with North East rivals Newcastle - who take on United today - and Middlesbrough expected to make moves.

But he could be the first of many to be on his way out as the board begin to impose restrictions on Ferguson.

Ferguson (right) has been told he must reduce his wage bill before he makes any signings.

United may try to persuade Middlesbrough to do a deal including Stewart Downing.

Downing, has been in brilliant form for Boro on the left flank and is an under-21 international.

He missed out on a call-up to the full England squad to take on Spain on Wednesday but his first full cap will not be far away.

Copyright 2004 MGN LTD
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.