SIR Alex Ferguson has largely knocked big tournament talent-spotting on the head since getting his fingers burnt in Euro 96 with Czech Karel Poborksy and Holland's Jordi Cruyff , who both failed to consistently reproduce for Manchester United.



Ferguson was keen to bolster his squad before the usual mad summer scramble and United have already installed '7m striker Alan Smith from Leeds, '6.9m defender Gabriel Heinze from Paris St Germain, plus Liam Miller from Celtic.

However, having strengthened all departments Ferguson could still be on the look-out for at least one more big name capture.

He'll be keeping an eye on the goings on in Portugal while he's holidaying and, while it is unlikely that he'll move for any overnight wonders in the tournament, some more established potential purchase could be monitored.

Ferguson has been unusually open about his admiration for Liverpool's Steve Gerrard.

Chelsea also want Gerrard and have a bigger financial clout to see off United in any bidding war. Similarly Everton's Wayne Rooney is likely to be the subject of intense interest and United would certainly be in the frame .

However, Spain's influential engine room player Ruben Baraja could be a more affordable target. His position at Valencia is unclear after coach Rafa Benitez quit the La Liga champions.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: If Gerrard and Rooney's advisors encourage buyers then Ferguson will instruct chief executive David Gill to go into bat on United's behalf. With three signings already in the bag there is still a feeling that one major capture is still brewing at Old Trafford.

STUART MATHIESON



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