HOWDY PARDNER!

The MEN reports:

The Reds want MetroStars number one Tim Howard and are keen to tie up a deal with the 24-year-old New Jersey-born player.

Sir Alex Ferguson's network of scouts now extends into America and the 6ft 3inch keeper has been identified as having the credentials to succeed in the Premiership.

The Reds made enquiries a month ago according to MetroStars' President and general manager Nick Sakiewicz and wanted Howard to come over from the US to Carrington to train with goalkeeper coach Tony Coton.

However, Howard remained with his side to prepare for the MSL league.

The Mirror today:

American team MetroStars confirmed Manchester United's interest in their goalkeeper Tim Howard last night.

Mirror Sport yesterday revealed that the keeper, who suffers from Tourette's syndrome which causes nervous tics and random swearing, is a target for United.

And the New York club's general manager Nick Sakiewicz said: "Back when we traded Mike Amman to allow Timmy to develop, I knew that this interest would come.

"To Timmy's credit, it has come a lot quicker than I expected. But he's a world-class player. The interest does not surprise us at all.

"It's definitely flattering that one of the world's richest, biggest clubs is interested in one of our players," added Sakiewicz.

A £1.2million deal is being thrashed out.

Meanwhile on Pires’ French radio show last night he claimed Barthez is on 50k a week-ish, so United won’t keep him as back up if we sign another keeper, and coz of his wages any fee is gonna be absolutely MINIMAL. Pires, stated Seaman's excellent but very old, and he thinks there should, and could, be an open door for Barthez at Higbury especially given the expected price [thanks to Fuz for the info].

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