By Chris O'Brien
June 11 2006

Ruud van Nistelrooy could be used as a makeweight in any future offers for Spurs midfielder Michael Carrick. The North London club, having rejected United's initial £10million approach, are interested in bringing the out-of-favour Dutch international to White Hart Lane.

Ruud van Nistelrooy is now subject to transfer speculation from Tottenham Hotspur following Manchester United's rejected £10million bid for Michael Carrick.

Sources suggest that Spurs are furious at the timing of Sir Alex Ferguson's approach, with Carrick part of the 23-man England squad that is battling for success in Germany. However, the North London club are willing to part company with their talisman midfielder, but only if United significantly improve their initial bid.

Tottenham boss Martin Jol is said to be interested in bringing Ruud van Nistelrooy to White Hart Lane as part of the deal. The Dutch striker, who has bagged 150 United goals in five seasons, looks certain to leave Old Trafford after a well-publicised fall out with Ferguson, and may favour a move that would keep him in the Premiership, joining one of the league's most ambitious clubs. An offer of £8million and the Netherlands star is said to be favoured by Jol.

Following van Nistelrooy's ugly spat with Sir Alex, and the club's desire for a new midfielder, this could be a deal which is in the interests of both parties. Have your say on the messageboard.