Manchester United are set to make a shock bid for Manchester City defender Micah Richards in the summer. City are likely to be reluctant to sell to their local rivals for one of their prized assets.

Richards is valued at around £20 million, and such a significant offer may tempt City into a sale.

Richards has been one of the most impressive young players in the Premiership this year and has recently enjoyed international recognition with England.

Any move for the City player by United is likely to be unwelcome, and the player himself only recently signed a new contract.

But, if reports are proven to be true, Ferguson is tempted to try his luck at landing Richards anyway.