It appears Manchester United is serious about their desire to sign Croatian midfielder Luka Modric away from Tottenham, to the tune of 22 million pounds.

That is the opening bid United will offer Spurs in order to acquire the 26-year-old manager Sir Alex Ferguson has had his eyes on for some time. Manchester United will most likely have to increase their bid to acquire him, as Tottenham values Modric at around 30 million pounds, or $46.5 million.

But United believe that Modric, who wanted a release from Spurs last summer, is desperate to leave. His club's failure to secure a Champions League berth for next season is just one of the factors playing into the decision.

Modric has made it no secret that he would like the opportunity to transfer squads. Last year, Chelsea made a bid to acquire the midfielder, only to have it rejected by Tottenham, who claimed they would not sell Modric. Upset with the decision, Modric refused to play in the Spurs' opening match of the season. He eventually joined the team and finished the season with five goals and six assists. 

United is also looking to acquire Everton fullback Leighton Baines to replace longtime left-back Patrice Evra, who struggled at time last season. Everton though, are unlikely to sell the 27-year-old English international.

While the Red Devils try to add one midfielder, they have lost another. Paul Pogba, one of United's top prospects, has left the team to sign with Juventus.

Pogba, 18, grew wary of his chances to make the first team with United and instead decided his career would be better off with the Italian squad. Manchester United will receive training compensation of less than 1 million pounds for the French native per FIFA rules regarding young players.