United deny 'illegal approaches'

MANCHESTER UNITED yesterday dismissed reports claiming they have made illegal approaches to young players overseas.

It has been reported United targeted players in France and Brazil as young as seven years old, and the club denied the claims.

A statement on the club's official website www.manutd.com read: "These stories do not have an element of truth and sadly no attempt was made to contact Manchester United to verify the accuracy of the claims.

"These reports do serious damage to both the reputation of the club and the credibility of our scouts ... and we are seeking to redress the balance.

"Manchester United always conducts itself in a right and proper manner and we will take necessary steps to protect the name and integrity of the club."