United on the Hunt for new striker

Dutch international striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has been linked with a Jaunary move to Manchester United.

Huntelaar, who currently plys his trade with German side Schalke, had reportedly been lined up for a switch to Old Trafford for several years after his purple patches at Heerenveen and, most notably, Ajax; however, a move never materialised after he elected to move to European giants Real Madrid and then AC Milan.

The big money moves proved to be disastrous, though, as he only managed a combined 50 appearances and 15 goals in two years. Since moving to Germany, however, the 28-year-old has rediscovered the form that made him such hot property, and it has been reported that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to sign the forgotten starlet.

Huntelaar has amassed 21 goals in 18 matches so far this campaign, but may face a spell on the sidelines after breaking his nose during the stalemate with Cypriot side AEK Larnaca in the Europa League last night (Thursday). The injury is unlikely to deter possible suitors, though, so Schalke may have to brace themselves for offers.

United's alleged bid is understood to offer Dimitar Berbatov as a compromise to soften the blow of losing Huntelaar, but Schalke are adamant that their talisman will remain at Gelsenkirchen.

"Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is under contract at Schalke and he is a first-team regular at our club," said general manager Horst Heldt.

"We have no ambition to transfer him. He is showing top standard performances this season and it is pretty much usual those performances are getting noticed by top-quality clubs.

"At this moment we have not received any offer for the services of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar from any club.