ManU News:

BECKS EXPECTS DEAL DELAY!!

England skipper David Beckham has warned Manchester United fans that his contract negotiations are unlikely to be concluded before Christmas, as originally planned.

"I don't think it's fair to go into detail about my contract talks but I don't think they will be sorted out before Christmas as we had intended them to be," said Beckham. "Hopefully they will get sorted out."

But Beckham sought to reassure fans that he is almost certain to stay at Old Trafford. "I know for a fact that the fans know my heart is at Old Trafford. They watch me play day in and day out but I don't think it's the fans who need convincing," he added. "I've been there my whole career and I'm happy at Manchester United."

Beckham's comments came the day after United chief executive Peter Kenyon revealed that the club had "gone as far as we can" in offering terms to the England captain.

Kenyon added: "We have been in discussions with David and his agents for several months and they have been pretty extensive. We want him to stay and so does he. We are all hopeful. For all our sakes, we would like to get this thing drawn to a close."

The sticking point is understood to be over image rights, with the midfielder's advisers wanting to ensure that the total deal equates to £100,000 a week.

Beckham, whose current deal runs out in 18 months' time, also confirmed that he is keen to learn the identity of Ferguson's successor, although the successful candidate is unlikely to be revealed for some time yet.

"It's probably not as important as a lot of people have said but of course it is an issue. I'd like to know who the next manager is going to be, but it wouldn't stop me signing a new contract," he said.