Man Utd News: Sir Alex safety concern, Barca eye Mata, TWIST in De Jong contract talks

SIR ALEX FERGUSON has sparked a security surge for Manchester United's trip to Preston on Monday after it was confirmed the legendary manager will attend the FA Cup clash.

Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester UnitedGETTY

Sir Alex Ferguson will watch Manchester United's FA Cup clash at Preston on Monday

It is feared Preston fans could target Sir Alex, who had a spat with the club in 2010 when his son, Darren, was dismissed as manager at Deepdale.

Extra security is being laid on for the fixture, with United director and ambassador Sir Alex watching on as part of the official delegation.

Current manager Louis van Gaal, meanwhile, admits he does not know his strongest side despite being at the club for eight months.

Dutchman Van Gaal spent £150million in the summer rebooting the United squad and has enjoyed great success in recent months, hauling the team up to third in the Premier League.

But Van Gaal says he is still unsure which system works best at Old Trafford.

He said: "I have played now already five or six systems and I am looking still for the balance.

Striker Robin van Persie was reportedly stopped by police when on his way to training this week.

Pictures have emerged of what appear to show the Holland international being pulled over on the M60 and being spoken to by an officer.

He was let to go on his way without a warning.

Van Gaal: Underdog factor means everybody is against you [AMBIENT]

In transfer news, Barcelona want United midfielder Juan Mata - but must wait until 2016 to land their man.

Mata has struggled to force his way into a regular first-team place under boss Louis van Gaal and could be sold if the price is right.

Barca are under a transfer embargo until January 2016 but are keen to line up targets knowing they will have a  huge cash reserve saved up from a summer of transfer inactivity.

Nigel De Jong, meanwhile, is currently in a contract deadlock with AC Milan, fuelling speculation he may be heading to Old Trafford next summer.

Van Gaal is a keen admirer of former Man City star De Jong and would likely be willing to pay the £50,000-a-week wages he is demanding in Miland.

Reports in Italy suggest San Siro bosses are unwilling to meet these demands and so De Jong is set to leave the Serie A come July.

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