van hints at Kluivert move

Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy would welcome Dutch international team-mate Patrick Kluivert “with open arms” if he joins the Red Devils.

Van Nistelrooy scored his third hat-trick of the season for United yesterday in the 4-1 win over Charlton which gives them a commanding eight-point lead over Arsenal in the title race.

He insisted afterwards that he would relish linking up with Kluivert - currently with Barcelona – at club level as well as for Holland.

He told the News of the World: “I have heard Patrick is coming to Manchester United – and I will be waiting there to welcome him to Old Trafford with open arms.

“He is the greatest attacking talent in Europe. So far we’ve only played 18 internationals together but when we play together and train together every day, we will become even better.”