Van Nistelrooy is coming to England

Europe's most sought-after striker, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, has confirmed that he will be playing in the Premiership next season - but left the club of his choice as a mystery. Speaking in Holland yesterday after scoring his 27th goal of the season at the weekend, the PSV Eindhoven player said: 'I will be going to England and definitely not to Italy or Spain'.

Speaking in Holland yesterday after scoring his 27th goal of the season at the weekend, the PSV Eindhoven player said: 'I will be going to England and definitely not to Italy or Spain'.

Chelsea and Arsenal have made all the running for the £20millionrated 23-year-old but those involved in the deal feel that Manchester United are closing in as dark horses.

Martin Ferguson, the manager's brother and head of European scouting, was in Eindhoven last Thursday to see Van Nistelrooy score his second hat-trick against Ajax this season and United were well represented again on Sunday night when the Holland international scored one and made two against Herenveen.

While the champions will play heavily on their successful club-to-club negotiations with PSV for the signing of Jaap Stam in 1998, Chelsea and Arsenal have other inducements.

PSV want to take Tore Andre Flo in part exchange for Van Nistelrooy - a move which would provide 'closure' on their failed attempt to sign the Norwegian just before he joined Chelsea in 1997.

Arsenal are thought to be willing to do business over Dennis Bergkamp who has been badly debilitated by injury this season. His transfer value needs to be cashed in on now if Arsene Wenger does not intend the Dutchman to end his career at Highbury.

Chelsea have signed Georgia striker Rati Aleksidze for £200,000 from Dinamo Tblisi in a deal which could rise to £800,000, dependent on appearances.

(Exclusive from Soccernet)

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