SIR ALEX Ferguson is in talks with Argentina World Cup star
Javier Mascherano.
Fergie believes he has finally found the man to replace Roy Keane
and Mascherano's agents arrived last night to discuss a move to
Manchester United.
The defensive midfielder (above) is valued at £25million by
Corinthians, but United are expected to make the Brazilian club an
opening offer of £16m.
The investment company behind Corinthians bought Mascherano from
River Plate for £10m two years ago and the key to the move is how
much profit they want from his sale.
United are prepared to dig deep for Mascherano, described by Diego
Maradona as "a monster of a player and destined for great
things".
And at the age of 22 he will have a resale value if he moves on
from Old Trafford, which is the kind of deal that appeals to the
Glazer family who own United.
Sir Alex will also sign Michael Carrick in a £16m deal after
Tottenham admitted defeat in their battle to keep the England
midfielder.
Carrick has turned down a new contract offer worth £45,000 a week
which would have trebled his wages at White Hart Lane.
That was the signal for Ferguson to make a third bid for him and
negotiations are likely to be finalised before Carrick returns to
pre-season training after his extended break following the World
Cup.
Losing Carrick has forced Spurs to put on hold plans to off-load
Edgar Davids to his former club Ajax.
