Rumour Mill - Beattie, Benali & Morrison

Last updated : 04 January 2002 By Christian Kelly
Rumour Mill: James Beattie has been linked with a move to Manchester United after the departure of Andy Cole form the champions. The rumour values Beattie at around £8 million but Rupert Lowe said:  "We have not had an approach from
either of them. We would certainly not encourage any interest in James, who has been doing a superb job for us and is going from strength to strength.

James and Marian Pahars are forming an outstanding partnership in attack for us and I think they have scored something like 18 goals for us so far. We have no intention of selling either of them and there is no pressure on us to do so."

James Beattie said: "I have read the speculation and it is flattering to see my name linked but I have not heard anything. I don't think there is anything in it."

It's not even clear that Alex Ferguson will be looking for a replacement for Cole before he departs at the end of the season. Still, that hasn't stopped the hacks linking any half decent striker to the club. I think there's no credibility in this one. Even funnier is that Strachan has apparently already lined up a replacement based on this non existent deal. Long term link, Clinton Morrison is supposed to be joining us shortly.

Francis Benali's reported move to Cardiff has been dismissed by Gordon Strachan who said: "Franny is not going to Cardiff. They haven't been in touch."