Manchester (England), Aug 05: Manchester United have reportedly told Chelsea they will have to increase their 23 million dollars offer for Juan Sebastian Veron if they are serious about securing the Argentinian midfielder's services. United have indicated they are willing to sell 28-year-old Veron but, according to yesterday's Manchester evening news, are holding out for a substantial increase on the current bid.
Chelsea know they will have to wrap up a deal by the middle of this week if the 52-times capped Argentinian is to be eligible to play for them in the final round of champions league qualifying later this month.
United boss Alex Ferguson admitted on Sunday he did not know whether Veron, who he bought from Lazio for 29 million pounds two years ago, would be a United player come the start of the season on August 16.
Bureau Report