MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to snatch Morten Gamst Pedersen
away from Blackburn by triggering an £8million release clause in
the Norwegian's Ewood Park contract. Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to
land the versatile Pedersen, who has made a big impact in his three
years at Ewood Park. And with Fergie already planning for life when
Ryan Giggs, 33, calls time on his Old Trafford career, the Scot is
ready to make his move for the 25-year-old Pedersen this
summer.
Blackburn fended off interest by Spurs last summer by doubling
Pedersen's £10,000-per-week wages and handing him a new four-year
deal. But part of the new contract was the release clause that
allows Pedersen the right to move to any club that puts in an £8m
bid for his services.
United have been alerted to the existence of the clause. which is
similar to the one that allowed Liverpool to land Craig Bellamy for
£6m. It was a protective gesture by Rovers, who were determined to
ensure they did not lose him for a minimal fee.
Yet it is a licence for a predator to come in and effectively force
a sale, with United being able to offer Pedersen a huge signing-on
fee and massively improved wages.
