Heinze has a letter he believes entitles him to join the Anfield club, who have matched United's stipulated desire for a £6.8million transfer fee.

United officials contend the letter, signed by chief executive David Gill, does not over-ride the Argentina defender's contract, which still has two years to run.

Currently sidelined with a minor knock sustained during the Copa America, Heinze will have his future determined by the Premier League, who are due to assess the situation on August 20.

Yet, despite his stated desire to join the Red Devils' fierce north-west rivals, Ferguson does not believe there will be a problem with Heinze turning out for United again.

"Nothing has moved as far as Gaby is concerned," said the United boss.

"We have a meeting on August 20 which will settle the issue once and for all.

"We think our case is strong and we are depending on that.

"And, if it goes our way, Gaby definitely has a future here. He still has another two years left on his contract."