Alex Ferguson's announcement he would not be staying on at Manchester United after his contract ends next year was prompted by fears David O'Leary was being lined up to replace him and that the board wanted to sell playmaker David Beckham, the News of the Worldreported.
A United source told the paper Ferguson would have to sell before he could buy again and he was worried even if he did so he would not getthe £40 million sterling he needs to build another European Cup-winning outfit.
"Ferguson would never sanction selling Beckham," the source told the paper."But he has been told he has to sell before he can buy," he said.
It was reported Ferguson was also unhappy chairman Martin Edwards was involved in the talks about his future and was horrified to be offered just £100,000 for an ambassadorial role after his superb 16-year reign.
Although Ferguson would not be drawn on O'Leary, with whom he has had some bitter arguments, he expressed his admiration for Martin O'Neill, who has turned Celtic round in just one season.
"Martin's a no-nonsense manager - just what you need at a big club. You don't mess this man around.
"Any recognition and praise that Martin gets is deserved. For him to go to Celtic and change it all around in one season is remarkable.
"I have to say I thought he would do that because he is a good organiser and a great believer in team spirit. He is a no-nonsense manager who is strong and has a personality and I think those qualities are important at a big club like Celtic."
AFP