SHEARER IS A TRANSFER TARGET

Last updated : 27 November 2002 By Editor

United have apparently joined the race to sign highly rated 21-year-old goalkeeper Scott Shearer of Scottish third division side Albion Rovers. Bolton Wanderers, Celtic and Everton have had the keeper on trial in previous months and he is said to have impressed. Second division Oldham Athletic also maintain an interest.

Meanwhile the club are reportedly interested in signing highly-rated Swiss defender Phillipe Senderos, the youngster is also wanted by Real Madrid, with whom he has signed a pre-contract agreement, and Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

"It is no surprise that top clubs like Manchester United are after him,"

"He is big, tall and technically gifted.

"He would be a perfect replacement for Laurent Blanc. He is young and has a lot of room to improve."

However Senderos may chose to remain in Switzerland until 2004 and complete his secondary education.

Aston Villa's Darius Vassell is unlikely toe coming to Old Trafford in January despite press reports. His agent says contract talks have not broken down, but instead are ongoing.

"The talks have not broken down at all. They are simply ongoing. There are no problems. These matters sometimes take a while to sort out."

This could leave the door wide open for PSG star Ronaldinho who we are told we should pay special attention to.