Manchester United look elsewhere as Berbatov deal stalls

Tottenham are still refusing to compromise on their £30m valuation of Dimitar Berbatov, prompting Manchester United to look elsewhere according to reports.

Berbatov has made it clear that he wishes to move to Old Trafford, calling it his "dream move". He handed in a formal transfer request last Friday. But Tottenham will not budge on their valuation and Manchester United have refused to meet their figure.

A report in El Mundo Deportivo claims United have sounded out Ajax about the availability of striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. It is thought that he would be available at a cheaper price than Berbatov.

The Dutch international, 24, said earlier in the summer: "It's a club (Manchester United) that makes me dream, especially as Ruud van Nistelrooy played there and did great things with them."

Ferguson's options as he attempts to bolster his strike force appear to narrowing. Reports last week suggested David Silva had turned down a move to the European champions - opting to stay at Valencia. United were also linked with Blackburn forward Roque Santa Cruz but Rovers boss Paul Ince seems to have done enough to hold on to his star striker. Karim Benzema was another name linked with Old Trafford but has since signed an extension to his contract with Lyon.

There were also reports that United were interested in signing the former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry.

Alex Ferguson will be desperate to bolster his front line as soon as possible following their scoreless draw with Portsmouth in the Community Shield and their opening day draw at home to Newcastle.