Portugal star claims United interest

Manchester United could be poised to add a second Portuguese midfielder to their squad after reportedly moving for Benfica's Armando Petit.

He has reportedly claimed to have received an approach from United, who already have Petit's international team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo in their squad.

Petit, 29, is with Portugal at the World Cup and played in their opening game against Angola.

Petit said: "Yes it is true. I have received an offer from Manchester United."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is attempting to strengthen his midfield and Tottenham confirmed last week they had turned down an offer from Old Trafford for England midfielder Michael Carrick.

Lyon midfielder Mahamadou Diarra is another reported target.

United were also linked yesterday with a move for Spain striker Fernando Torres and were rumoured to have bid £25 million for the Atletico Madrid star.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are edging closer to the signature of Brazilian wing-back Daniel Alves.

The Sevilla player has, according to his agent Rodriguez Baster, made up his mind to join the Anfield club but a fee has yet to be agreed between the two clubs.

Liverpool have reportedly had two offers turned down already. Sevilla want £10 million for the player but Liverpool want to hold out for £8million until they can raise funds from the sale of other players.

"I can say that, without any doubts, the player wants to go to Liverpool," Baster said. "Personally I have not listened to any other club, although some have rung and I have passed them on to Sevilla, but what Daniel wants to is to play for Liverpool.

"The two sides are getting closer, we are still quite a way apart, but if the president of Sevilla has said that Sevilla are resigned to losing him, who am I to contradict it?

"Daniel was not looking to leave Sevilla, but there are times when - without actually having forced the issue - you want to improve yourself.

"Daniel is very happy here with the fans, the club and with everything, but every player in the world always wants to play for a bigger club.

"I don't think I can give a timescale for this because there are differences, but we'll see."