Robben off, United go for Berbatov

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While Holland winger Robben, 23, who signed three years ago for £12m from PSV Eindhoven, will get the move he desires, champions United relaunched their bid to sign the Bulgarian with a £21m offer.

Scroll down to read more:

Real gone kid: Arjen Robben heads to Madrid

The Spurs board have rebuffed all bids so far and put a £40m price tag on the 6ft 2in forward but with all the uncertainty over Martin Jol's future as manager, Berbatov may force the issue.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is eager to sign another striker after Wayne Rooney broke a foot and specifically wants someone with more physical presence.

Scouts from across Europe were called in last week for a briefing and Ferguson wants Berbatov, who scored 19 goals last season.

United wanted to take Berbatov to England last year before his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Spurs, who had an agreement that they would have first call on the player provided they matched the £10.9m asking price.

Privately, Berbatov is flattered by United's interest and would like the chance to play for them and test himself further in the Champions League.

However, Spurs, who rejected United's enquiries about a £17m deal in May, will stand firm.

That has left United considering their options, while Berbatov, who is struggling to shake off a groin injury in time to face United on Sunday, may now have to declare a desire to leave White Hart Lane.

United we fall: Berbatov may be heading to Old Trafford

United have alternatives. They have been offered Newcastle's Obafemi Martins and know they could buy Nicolas Anelka from Bolton for £12m.

However, they are in danger of being left with nobody as Anelka's representatives held talks with Portsmouth officials last night, with the Frenchman keen to sign for Harry Redknapp.

United have managed only three goals in their last nine games in all competitions.

Louis Saha could return on Sunday but midfielder Paul Scholes said: "I would hope that the goals are just around the corner for us but we can't take it for granted."

United are also sweating on the fitness of goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who picked up an injury while training with Holland.