The most disturbing transfer rumour of recent times, albeit rather weak at its base, concerns the interest shown by Sir Alex Ferguson in Emmanuel Petit.

'Newspaper reports' say that Barcelona have confirmed that permission has been given to Man United to speak to Petit (who still has 4 years left on his current contract) about a possible summer transfer, following a rather disappointing year in La Liga.

A Barca spokesman, quoted by Sky Sports, said: 'United have contacted us, and they are favourites to sign him.'

With ManU being frequently mentioned in the context of a possible move for Patrick Vieira, it raises the unbearable prospect of The Best Midfield Partnership In World Football resuming... at Old Trafford.

Petit writes on his official website - redesigned since we last looked at it - that he will write about his future at the start of the week. We'll keep you posted.