United's shock move for Duff

Manchester United are poised to snatch Damien Duff away from Liverpool in a shock move for the Blackburn striker.

United are likely to make a firm bid in the next few days as Sir Alex Ferguson steps up his search for a new forward.

Sources indicate that Ferguson, who was impressed by the Republic of Ireland forward in this summer's World Cup finals, could tie up the deal by the weekend.

The contact between Ewood Park and Old Trafford began last week when Dwight Yorke moved to Blackburn in a £2 million deal and now Duff, 23, could make the reverse journey.

It is believed Blackburn have already turned down a £10 million bid from Liverpool, who have been chasing the player for some time. United would have to at least match that valuation, after spending £30 million on Rio Ferdinand last week.

Duff 's imminent move could mean that United will not now attempt to sign West Ham's Italian striker Paolo Di Canio. Speculation has been increasing that the 34-year-old Di Canio could at last be moving to United following persistent rumours over the last few months, but if the Duff transfer goes through that will end hopes of a deal with West Ham.