Manchester United's summer spending will be kicked off with a ?15million bid for Everton teenager Jack Rodwell.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been an admirer of the England Under 21 midfielder for 18 months.
He considered a bid for Rodwell in January but decided to hold off after learning that Everton would not let the 19-year-old go before the end of the season.
Writing in the match programme before last weekend's Manchester derby, Ferguson said: 'We had an interest in one player and had a chance of bringing him in, but the other parties involved weren't ready and so we have put it away until the summer.'
Sportsmail understands Rodwell was that player and that Ferguson is confident of landing him this summer.
Everton manager David Moyes fended off United's interest last year by handing the youngster a new contract but Ferguson will not give up on Rodwell.
Remember me? Rodwell shot to fame and made a lasting impression on Ferguson with a fine individual goal and wild celebration against United last year
?Evra commits future to Manchester United with new three-year deal Fergie to gamble on Manchester United kids in historic cup clash against minnows Crawley Everton owe Moyes a victory after dismal display at Bolton, admits CahillAll the latest Manchester United FC news, features and opinionAll the latest Everton FC news, features and opinion
?Explore more:People: Alex Ferguson, David Moyes Places: Manchester
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail