Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a personal check on Barcelona superkid Giovani dos Santos on Sunday in their 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid.

El Mundo Deportivo says Ferguson was in the Nou Camp to run his eye over the Mexico international, who he has been following since the 2004 Nike Premier Cup, which was held at United.

Ferguson sees Dos Santos as an ideal solution for the left-side of his midfield, but will face competition from Chelsea.

Pini Zahavi, the celebrated agent, is now in charge of Dos Santos' affairs and close to both Premiership clubs. However, he is currently speaking with Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain about a new deal for Dos Santos.