Ghana star keen on United move

Highly-rated Ghana star Sulley Muntari has issued a ’come and get me’ plea to the Premiership, with Manchester United at the top of his wish list.

The 21-year-old midfielder spent time with the Old Trafford outfit as a teenager, only for work permit problems to scupper any chance of getting a permanent contract.

Instead, Muntari headed for Italy, where he has now spent four seasons with Udinese, making 97 appearances for the Serie A outfit.

But, after a series of extensive chats with close friend and World Cup room-mate Michael Essien of Chelsea, Muntari has decided he would like to try his luck in England next term.

As one of the best young players from Africa, his forceful statement is bound to attract the attention of leading clubs.

But it is the chance of trying his luck with United again which really appeals to Muntari.

And, with Alex Ferguson still hunting for a holding midfield player following Tottenham’s decision to reject a £10m move for Michael Carrick, it is interesting to note that is exactly the role Muntari fills for his club side.

“I was very close to joining United when I was younger,” he said.

“At the time I had a problem getting a work permit because I was not playing for the international team.

“But now I am in the Ghana squad, the permit would not be a problem.

“I have been in Italy for four years now and think it is time for a change.

“I would like to play in the Premiership and, if possible, I would like to return to Manchester United.

“They are one of the greatest clubs in the world. If I got a call to play there I would be really happy.”

Muntari stressed he has spoken to no-one about a potential move and Udinese officials might be alarmed since his current contract does not expire until 2010.

However, it appears he has already made his mind up to quit Serie A and try life in England, a desire reinforced by Essien’s reports of life at Chelsea.

“I speak with Michael every day,” said Muntari, rated a better player than Essien by many in his homeland.

“I have been asking him about the Premiership since he first signed for Chelsea.

“He just says the football in England is fantastic. He is so happy there it makes me feel a little bit lost.”

Muntari reckons the key to getting the move he craves will be impressing during the World Cup, which is why he has not slept for two nights since his below-par performance in the Black Stars’ opening Group E defeat to Italy.

Saturday’s encounter with the Czech Republic in Kaiserslautern offers and opportunity for redemption, and, from a personal perspective, a chance to see how Muntari matches up to established top-class talent in the form of Pavel Nedved and £8m Arsenal new boy Tomas Rosicky.

“They are world-class players but I am in the World Cup too so I have to match them,” he said.

“This tournament is very important for my career.

“Everyone watches it and every team has their scouts here watching all the players. This is the best time for me to do something to get a move.”