United captain baffled by Ronaldinho snub

Roy Keane has attacked Ronaldinho's decision to snub a big-money move to Old Trafford this summer and claiming that nobody in…

Roy Keane has attacked Ronaldinho's decision to snub a big-money move to Old Trafford this summer and claiming that nobody in their right mind could not join Manchester United.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was left fuming last weekend when the Brazilian striker brought months of tense negotiations to a climax by opting to join Barcelona from Paris St Germain.

Ferguson had made Ronaldinho his major summer transfer target and Red Devils chief executive Peter Kenyon hinted the 23-year-old had given assurances that would sign before eventually turning his back on the stg£20million deal.

While respecting Ronaldinho's standing as one of the most exciting players in the world, Keane cannot understand his logic.

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Over a decade ago, the combative Irishman had the choice of every club in the country when he confirmed his intention to leave Nottingham Forest.

But once he saw Old Trafford, Keane knew he would find nowhere better, a view he still holds today.

"I don't want to be disrespectful to anyone but any player who doesn't really want to come to Manchester United needs their head examining," Keane told MUTV.

"Obviously there are agents and other people involved but to me Manchester United is the only choice, and that's above any other club in the world.

Although Ferguson has added three players to the squad which secured their eighth Premiership title last term, with a fourth to come providing Brazilian international Kleberson can secure a work permit, a big name to replace departed England skipper David Beckham remains elusive.

Real Betis youngster Joaquin has indicated he would be willing to listen to Old Trafford overtures, although the main speculation at the moment centres around a possible bid for Newcastle's England international Kieron Dyer.

The rumour mill has been given an extra push by the presence in Los Angeles of Newcastle chief executive Freddy Shepherd, just 24 hours before the United party are due to land for the second game of their US tour against Mexican outfit Club America at the Coliseum tomorrow.

Ferguson is a long-time admirer of Dyer but whether he would be willing to fork out £25 million for the injury-plagued midfielder is open to question. Earlier this week the United boss stated his intention to 'draw breath' before re-entering the transfer market, although he did admit he had a couple of targets in mind before the August 31 Champions League transfer deadline.

Keane though hopes his manager can secure at least one more new face, providing they can meet the specific demands of being a Manchester United player.

"Before the manager signs anyone, I am sure he will have looked into their background and what kind of character they are," said the United skipper.

"When you get a new player, it lifts the whole squad, especially when you are talking about the Ronaldinhos of this world because they can produce that bit of magic which excites the team.

"It is important to bring in quality players but unless they really want to come, it is hard to attract them.