From the headquarters in Tampa Bay, Florida

Is this a football decision? A business decision by the Glazers? A personal loyalty test from SAF? Who's running this dog and pony show, and how can fantasy managers make sense of it?

Ruud told to sign or be sold

Van Nistelrooy's contract is due to expire in June 2008 and the proposed deal would see his wages rise to £90,000 a week.

But Sir Alex Ferguson is apparently keen to sell him for maximum value at the end of the season if the striker refuses to prove his loyalty to the Old Trafford club.