Departing Chelsea winger Joe Cole has priced himself out of a move to Manchester United.

The Daily Mail says United manager Sir Alex Ferguson decided against pursuing him after being deterred by wage demands in excess of £100,000 a week and noting how he has struggled to recapture his best form since returning from injury.

Cole was prepared to venture north, after launching his career under Harry Redknapp at West Ham and joining Chelsea for £6.6million seven years ago, but now looks to be facing a straight choice between Tottenham and Arsenal.

Redknapp has confirmed his interest and, like Arsenal, can offer Cole Champions' League football next season.