Man Utd in league showdown as Berbatov transfer farce rolls on

Spurs submitted a complaint alleging improper conduct by United in their pursuit of the player and the Premier League board will discuss it this week after receiving both clubs' observations.

United remain confident there is no case to answer and still expect to sign Berbatov before Sunday's Premier League opener at home to Newcastle.

Lips not sealed: Berbatov has been telling team-mates he could soon be on his way to Old Trafford

The Bulgarian has told his Spurs colleagues he anticipates an improved offer from Old Trafford this week - and this time he is confident it will be accepted. United had a £20million bid, the news of which was first revealed in Sportsmail, rejected last month and were told Spurs value Berbatov at more than £30m.

But that is seen by United as little more than a tactic to raise the final figure for a player Sir Alex Ferguson has long wanted and an offer closer to £25m should lead to a deal being completed. 

United captain Gary Neville, who returned to action in Sunday's Community Shield triumph over Portsmouth after a season-and-half out injured, believes United will intimidate rivals hoping to take their title this season.

Neville said: 'At times we can be intimidating. Obviously, when you've got players who are able to beat opponents one-on-one like we have, and we have them throughout our squad, that's the most intimidating thing for a defender.

'In turn, we can cope with the harshest treatment from European or English defenders. 'Our front players are intimidating to play against and I play against them in training. So I should know.'

Neville was a surprise choice ahead of Wes Brown for Sunday's game and he added: 'I was pleased to be back. It was something I've waited a long time for.

'I will improve with minutes on the pitch and the most important thing for me is to stay fit.'