United face battle in bid to sign Ramsey

MANCHESTER UNITED face a fight to secure the services of midfielder Aaron Ramsey.

The double winners have agreed a fee with Cardiff for the talented 17-year-old, who played in the FA Cup final. However, they face competition from at least two other Premier League clubs.

Along with United, Cardiff have given permission for another of those sides to talk to Ramsey.

A statement on the club website read: “We can confirm the club has received formal bids from three top Premier League teams for Aaron Ramsey and that Aaron has been given permission to speak to two of those teams.

“One of these is Manchester United, though no deal has been done and the player has not yet agreed terms.”

Ramsey, who hails from Caerphilly, was a keen rugby player before he decided to concentrate on football.

Under manager Dave Jones, he has made rapid progress at Cardiff and played 22 games last season including the FA Cup final.

Although the Championship side lost to Portsmouth at Wembley, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson remained impressed with Ramsey.

With other clubs taking interest, he decided to move in an attempt to make the talented youngster his first signing of the summer.

Ramsey, who has played for Wales Under-21s, was included in the senior squad for the friendlies against Iceland and Holland but did not feature.

He is due to discuss contract terms with United and take a medical at Old Trafford.

The club stated on their website: “Manchester United is delighted to announce it has agreed terms with Cardiff City for the transfer of Aaron Ramsey subject to contract terms being agreed and the player passing a medical.”