The Rumour Mill

Free-flowing is a term very often applied to United's football but once again, rumours are flowing freely around the club.

Freddy Adu has completed his trial, has been sent back to the USA whilst Sir Alex told us United could do nothing as the talented attacker has not turned 18 yet.

Now fresh rumours have emerged and according to these, United are ready to offer a contract to the lad who is plying his trade with D.C. United.

Facts are always rare in this kind of round-up but we can be pretty sure that Sir Alex Ferguson had indeed travelled to Lisbon on Friday to watch the Sporting v Benfica derby. However, our opinions might differ to the tabloids when it comes to defining his intentions.

OK, surely he went there to take a look at our Wednesday opponents, Benfica. But some papers suggest he wanted to check Nani's progress as United are thought to be keen on Sporting's whizkid. He was in action so if Fergie wanted to see him, then the gaffer got his wish.

Of course, football is not just about attacking and though United possess more than enough quality at the back, further investments are mooted. The Reds are thought to be monitoring the progress of Havard Nordtveit, Haugesund's 16-year-old central defender.

A spokesman from the Norwegian club said: 'Haugesund and Manchester have held discussions for an eventual transfer of Nordtveit. The clubs have not reached an agreement.

'Manchester have told us they will continue to follow the player's progress. The two clubs are prepared to continue negotiating.

'It could be that there will be a possibility of sending Harvard to Manchester for a new trial.'

Some stupid Italian paper suggest that we could lose one of our most prized assets next summer when Inter owner Massimo Moratti will launch a massive bid for Cristiano Ronaldo. If I weren't a courteous man, I'd say... but I am a courteous, well-mannered man (haha).

And United are also on the lookout for a new commercial director, with Martin George, former British Airways executive being linked with the job. He has plenty of experience, and according to the speculation, he could act as a deputy executive to David Gill.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.