Real Madrid's Makelele closer to Man Utd move

Manchester United are expected to step up its interest in Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele in the coming weeks.

The French international will leave Real at the end of the season after falling out with club chiefs over a new contract.

Makelele's representatives have claimed this season to have already held talks with several interested clubs, including United.

Press reports today suggest United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has made up his mind to sign the midfielder with skipper Roy Keane's influence in games now wavering.