JUAN FOR THE ROAD

All the papers runs with this story today. From the Sun:

Manchester United last night agreed to dump Juan Veron on Chelsea for just £14million.

Old Trafford boss Alex Ferguson finally decided to cut his losses on the Argentine flop — exactly two years after paying £28.1m for him. The clubs have verbally agreed a fee and the deal could be done by the middle of this week.

The South American gave the first hint he could be packing his bags a month ago when he was questioned on the prospect of playing in Italy.

Abramovich is desperate to bring a string of top names to Stamford Bridge and turned his attentions to Veron after becoming frustrated in his bid to sign Juventus midfielder Edgar Davids.

United have been boosted by the news the Ronaldinho deal is on the verge of completion. And they will also step up their attempts to land Real Betis wide boy Joaquin Sanchez.

United have already had one £11m bid for him turned down in the form of cash plus Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan. But the Spanish ace has refused to sign a new contract with Betis and the club are likely to accepted an improved offer.

The Guardian reports that Chelsea’s move for Veron comes after Abramovich took advice from Sven Eriksson, Veron’s boss at Sampdoria and Lazio.