Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted at doubt in holding onto Carlos Tevez.

Real Madrid are believed to be among those monitoring developments, although Tevez has consistently declared his desire to remain at Old Trafford.

However, reports of talks re-opening between the 24-year-old's controversial agent Kia Joorabchian and United chief executive David Gill are news to Ferguson.

The Scot confirmed United have attempted to instigate negotiations aimed at bringing forward a self-imposed deadline of next May. But so far it seems the Red Devils have met with little success.

"I have no idea about Tevez," said Ferguson.

"The contract is due to be the end of the season anyway but obviously we tried to bring it forward and we will keep trying to do that.

"But it is difficult with agents sometimes. All the managers signing players this January will experience that."