English football champions Manchester United have been warned to use official circles if they are interested in signing Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed his side have not made an offer for the 27-year-old Dutch international, but Inter Milan say United have tried to approach the player himself.
“I appreciate there’s been an offer, but it’s with Inter (that) the negotiations should take place,” Inter Milan coach Gian Piero Gasperini said.
“I’m not necessarily worried, it’s normal in this time to have this type of situation. The market is open to August 31, and it will continue to happen until then.
“It’s not just Inter, it’s the same with other big clubs who have players that are object of desire for big clubs.” Sneijder sparked hope at English champions United when he hinted he might be open to a move to the Premier League.
“What is going to happen we will see, but I am a happy guy,” he said on the website of English newspaper The Sun.
“There is always speculation, every year. I have been at the highest level for 10 years and there is always speculation, but look, I am still here.
“I am happy to train every day with my colleagues and play my games for the fans and every one at the club and whatever happens after that, we will see.” Meanwhile, United winger Antonio Valencia has signed a new four-year deal that will keep him at Old Trafford until the summer of 2015.
The 25-year-old has scored 10 goals in 69 appearances since joining United from Wigan Athletic in 2009.
“I am delighted to stay at United. I hope that I can continue to develop,” he said. “I am looking forward to making my contribution to helping this squad compete for more trophies.”
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