Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler is so keen on a move to Manchester United - he has had it written into his current contract!
The Daily Mail says Adler raised eyebrows at Leverkusen when he insisted he would only accept their offer of new terms if it made provision for his lifelong ambition to play for Manchester United.
Bayer powerbrokers reluctantly agreed to insert an escape clause, allowing him to leave for Old Trafford, should United meet their valuation, and the 25-year old duly signed.
The asking price is believed to be close on £20million, but the prospect of an immediate, hassle-free release from a deal that runs until 2012 may appeal to United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managing director Wolfgang Holzhauser confirmed the amazing demand: "It is an escape clause with a difference, because it only refers to one club. If United offer a certain amount, we have to let Rene go.
"He has always supported them, and he wanted to make sure the door was open, should they come calling. I know they have watched him quite a few times, so it may be difficult for us."
Former Germany striker and manager Rudi Voller, now Leverkusen sporting director, admitted their plans to open talks on a new deal would have to go on hold.
"We would like to offer him another contract, because we want to keep him here," he said. "But we know what we are up against. If United follow up their interest, there is not much we can do."
