Heinze agent infuriates Ferguson

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his anger at the conduct of Gabriel Heinze's agent.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez says the club's lawyers are working on forcing through a £6.8m deal for the 29-year-old Argentina defender.

But Ferguson said: "We are examining some of the statements coming from his agent and when contact was first made with Liverpool.

"We are not happy with the agent's conduct in the matter."

Ferguson added: "We're are examining that as well, but it will take a couple of days before we have anything more to say."

Liverpool have met the fee that would secure the Argentine defender's release - stated in a letter from United to Heinze's agent - but Ferguson does not want to sell Heinze to his arch-rivals.

Benitez said: "We made an offer which they rejected. The lawyers are working on it now so we have to wait."

BBC Sport understands the letter does not preclude Liverpool from buying Heinze, and he could also fight United to secure a switch to Anfield.

The fee, believed to be higher than the £6.8m mentioned, is not in Heinze's contract, it is contained in the letter to his agent.

Heinze is keen to leave Old Trafford, and Juventus and Real Madrid are also monitoring his situation.

Ferguson does not want any of his top players to join Liverpool - one of United's fiercest rivals.

Only Phil Chisnall in 1964 has travelled the route in modern times.

Heinze has become a firm favourite with the fans at Old Trafford but told Ferguson earlier this month that he wanted a move.

He has been in action for Argentina in the Copa America, denying Ferguson the opportunity to speak to him face-to-face. (bbc sport)