Robben rues failure to reach deal

PSV Eindhoven forward Arjen Robben “would have loved” a move to Manchester United in the transfer window, according to his agent and father.

Hans Robben revealed the clubs had failed to agree a fee for the talented 20-year-old after the Premiership champions reportedly offered £4.8m (€7m) while PSV wanted £10.3m (€15.1m).

“I am surprised both clubs could not come to an agreement,” Robben told newspaper Dagblad van het Noorden.

“When we spoke to Manchester United earlier this year I was under the impression they wanted Arjen very much. I don’t know if they are playing a game.

“I also don’t know if PSV asked for too much or if United simply didn’t offer enough. What I do know is that the difference was too big and that is a shame because Arjen would have loved to join Manchester United.”

Robben moved to PSV in 2001 from FC Groningen for almost £3.4m (€5m) and is contracted with the current Eredivisie champions until 2007.