Real to sell Roberto Carlos, buy Chivu?

In something of a departure from the usual tactics of the Spanish press, Sir Alex Ferguson has been linked with buying a player rather than selling Juan Sebastain Veron or Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Spanish sports daily Marca report that representatives from United will travel to Madrid this week to begin talks and whilst a defender would appear to be Ferguson's priority it was thought that it would be a more central player like Lilian Thuram.

Having finished the 2001-02 season trophy-less, Ferguson is desperate to regain momentum, although it has been something of a mixed start to the pre-season in The Premiership, with the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool already reinforcing their sides, whilst Arsenal and Newcastle remain somewhat quiet on the transfer front.

Although all of Real's stars are signed up on contracts with massive buy-out clauses, what is not known is how the club would react to a bid for Roberto Carlos, who has constantly been linked to a return to Italy.

Roberto Carlos has been in Madrid for six seasons, but has had a number of run-ins with the club hierarchy over several issues, especially his wages.

Perhaps the report of United's interest in Roberto Carlos has been backed up by news that Real are watching Ajax's 21-year-old captain, Chivu.

The Romanian international is an impressive star who is adept at centre back or on the left side of defence, which could facilitate Roberto Carlos's departure.

Real would face competition from Juventus, Roma and Internazionale for the player, although Chivu's agent, Giovanni Becali admitted there was an offer on the table from the Champions League winners.

"There is one serious offer from Real Madrid.  I gave my word to Florentino Perez that they would get priority until May 15, although there are other teams like Juventus, Rome or Inter that want him.

"On May 15, Jorge Valdano said to me if I could wait for another 15 days."

Valdano, Real's sporting director, got in contact with Chivu's representatives a week before the Champions League and tried to sign a pre-contract agreement but because of the interest of other clubs this has proven to be difficult.

However, Chivu remains unconcerned with the interest around him, stating: "We won two important titles last season and next year we will play in the Champions League.

"I am very happy at Ajax and am sure there will be offers in the future.  I am not worried."