United join Puerta race

By Graeme Bailey & Mark Kendall  

United join Puerta race

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Manchester United have joined the hunt for Sevilla starlet Antonio Puerta after his contract talks stalled.

The 22-year-old is contracted to the Uefa Cup winners until 2008 and Sevilla had been looking to tie him down to a long-term deal.

The majestic left footer has risen to prominence in recent seasons and his progress has already caught the attention of Arsene Wenger - who has been scouting the player in recent months.

Now it is understood that United too, have also begun to keep tabs on the midfielder - who won his first cap for Spain in October, and reports coming back to Sir Alex Ferguson and his back-room staff are believed to have been very favourable.

Both Wenger and Ferguson are also sure to be alerted to the fact that Puerta's talks over a new deal have come to a halt without an agreement being reached.

"It has stalled a little; there are differences," Puerta told Marca.

"There is always toing and froing and we are at that point.

"Everybody wants to improve, but in order for them to give you what you deserve you have to demonstrate it on the pitch and I am trying to do that."

Puerta admitted for the first time that he would need to consider all offers available to him, but Sevilla remain his priority.

"I hope and I want us to reach an agreement so that we can bring an end to this," he said.

"But you always listen to offers because if they are there it is for a reason, it's because you're demonstrating your worth.

"But for me, the first option will always be Sevilla."