Spurs to miss out on Butt

Nicky Butt: wants to stay in north England

14 April 2012

Tottenham look set to miss out on their bid to land Nicky Butt because the Manchester United midfielder would prefer to stay in the north of England.

Spurs are understood to have tabled a £5million bid for the England international, which matches United's valuation.

But they face stiff opposition from Middlesbrough and Newcastle and would struggle to match Butt's £60,000-a-week wages.

Boro today emerged as favourites to land the midfielder, who had his transfer request accepted by United earlier this week.

He would relish the chance to linkup with Boro boss Steve McClaren, a former United coach, and any deal could see Gareth Southgate switching to Old Trafford.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants Southgate as a replacement for Rio Ferdinand, who faces an eight-month Football Association ban for missing a drugs test. Spurs have been long time admirers of Butt but another factor in his decision will be that his partner is expecting a baby next month.

The 29-year-old is unlikely to want to make the switch to London if he can complete a move that would prevent any unnecessary upheaval for his family.

United, it is understood, received a number of enquiries yesterday as soon as it became clear they were prepared to let Butt leave.

McClaren said last month: "If Nicky ever becomes available, I will be first in the queue."

Sven Goran Eriksson's right-hand man Tord Grip believes a move will enhance Butt's international chances.

He said: "It is better for him to be playing regularly. He has been an important player for England."

Tottenham's acting manager David Pleat refused to answer queries about Butt as they continue their search for a central midfield 'leader'.

Meanwhile, there was renewed speculation today that Paul Robinson could be on his way out of Leeds for £4m.

The debt-ridden club have made it clear to possible buyers that England second-choice keeper is available if Premiership clubs can match their valuation.

Possible suitors include Tottenham and Chelsea, although neither club have so far followed up long-term interest with a firm offer.

Officials from the Professional Footballers Association met Leeds players yesterday to discuss the perils of administration.

Major creditors, owed more than £80million, have given the club a 19 January deadline to find a new investor.

David Batty approached the PFA to discuss the club's problems.

A number of proposals, including the deferral of players' wages, were discussed.

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Spurs to miss out on Butt

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