Hopes of Manchester United to attract Dimitar Berbatov as coach Alex Ferguson wants, "are increasing".

United had “ruled out a transfer swoop in the remaining 17 days of the January transfer window but wanted to pursue their interest in the summer,” Manchester Evening News said.

Meanwhile, Tottenham are trying to attracting Middlesbrough's winger Stewart Downing and Lyon's Brazilian striker Fred to the team.

“It is believed that Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is preparing the ground for Berbatov's departure with United in pole position to land him at the end of the season,” the newspaper said.

United’s coach Alex Ferguson had repeatedly expresses his contentedness with his team but was still missing an out-and-out striker.