Alex Ferguson rules out Danny Welbeck transfer

Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed there is as much chance of him signing for Sunderland on a permanent basis as Danny Welbeck.

Potentially pocketing £24million from the sale of Darren Bent to Aston Villa, Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is now trying to find a replacement for the England striker.

There was no shock that Welbeck should be amongst the first to be mentioned.

The 20-year-old has enjoyed a splendid first half-season on Wearside after joining on loan from Manchester United.

Even though he is currently sidelined following a minor knee operation, Welbeck has proved himself capable of being a Premier League striker and if Ferguson offered any indication of being willing to sell, Bruce would be first in the queue.

Unfortunately for the Black Cats chief, it is not going to happen.

With Michael Owen unlikely to be handed a new contract in the summer, the chances seem high that Welbeck will become Ferguson's fourth-choice front man.

"Steve has as much chance of getting me," Ferguson told Key103, when asked about the possibility of Welbeck joining Sunderland on a permanent basis.

"It is unfortunate Danny will be out for six weeks because he was playing so well.

"He has shown fantastic form and he is only 20.

"He has a long way to go yet but the signs are good for him."