Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will splash the cash this summer.

The Daily Star says he admits the billionaires are in the driving seat, having leapfrogged United at the top of the table on goal difference with just two games left.

But his biggest fear is that his bitter rivals will spend big again this summer in an attempt to become a major force in English and European football.

Fergie spent almost £60m on new signings last summer, including Ashley Young, 26, Phil Jones, 20, and David De Gea, 21.

But he has told senior figures at United that the squad needs fresh blood.