Last Updated: Mon, 15 May 2006 15:13
Chelsea have failed with a £12million swoop for Ruud van Nistelrooy after United refused to sell him to the Blues.
The Dutchman looks set to leave Old Trafford in the summer after falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson and it is believed Chelsea have made the first move to capture the player.
Jose Mourinho launched the £12million bid on Monday only to be told by the Reds he is not for sale. Ferguson is willing to let the player move on but is refusing to sell him to Chelsea who will again be hot favourites to pip United to the Premiership title next season.
United are looking to close the gap on Chelsea next season and Ferguson does not want to see the striker turning out for Mourinho's men next season.