United lead Ronaldinho chase

Manchester United have emerged as favourites to sign Brazil star Ronaldinho after Barcelona admitted they have been outbid by both the Old Trafford side and Real Madrid.

The Catalan giants turned their attention to the Paris St Germain forward after losing out to Madrid in the race to sign David Beckham.

But they face stiff competition for his services, particularly from United who have made Ronaldinho their number one target this summer, although the player is believed to favour a move to Spain.

“We want Ronaldinho but our offer is lower than Manchester United and Real Madrid, who have both offered £13.9m (€20m), and we are not going to enter into a fight between them,” said vice-president Sandro Rosell.

“Paris St Germain now have new owners as well who want to keep the player, which makes it more difficult.”

As Madrid are not thought to be serious contenders for Ronaldinho with president Florentino Perez ruling out a move after clinching the Beckham deal, Rosell’s comments would appear to put United into pole position in the race for the former Gremio forward’s signature.

Meanwhile, Barca defender Frank de Boer could be headed to England after admitting he had received offers from Premiership clubs.

The Holland international’s future at the Nou Camp is uncertain with a new president installed recently and a new coach also expected following Raddy Antic’s fire-fighting job.

“I’ve not spoken to the new president yet so I don’t know what his philosophy is,” said De Boer, whose brother Ronald plays in Scotland with Rangers.

“I have not set any deadline for a decision over my future.This is my first choice for me and my family. I would even consider taking a pay cut, it depends on what the offer is.

“I have had offers from other clubs including from the Premiership, but I have told them that at the moment my priority is to remain here.”