Sir Alex Ferguson is far from amused by Nani's performance in Manchester United's opening loss to Everton and is ready to wield the axe, as the club confirmed the signing of Alexander Buttner from Vitesse and revealed Angelo Henriquez had been granted a work permit.
Nani had a forgettable outing against Everton, and Ferguson was left fuming with the winger's performance, with a chance of a new contract reportedly out of the question. Ferguson will also drop the midfielder for United's next game against Fulham Saturday. The Portuguese international has been holding out for a new improved contract all summer, and is reportedly disillusioned by the club's reluctance to agree to a new deal.
"The club did not think his form at the end of last season put him in a very strong bargaining position over a new deal," a club source told The Sun. "Monday was hardly his best either.
"There was an intention to get him on a new four-year contract.
"But initial demands from Nani's side were way over the top. Right now United are happy to leave it until next summer unless his demands are dramatically dropped.
"But they won't sell unless silly money comes in."
Nani has been reportedly demanding a significant payrise. The 25-year-old is earning around £90,000 a week ($142,000) on his current contract, but wants over £130,000 ($205,000) a week in a new four-year deal.
Zenit St Petersburg have confirmed their interest in the player, and have put in a bid according to the Russian club's manager Luciano Spalletti. United will only consider selling if an offer of at least £25 million ($39.4 million) is tabled for the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder.
Meanwhile, United confirmed the capture of Buttner, who signed a five-year contract with the club after completing a medical.
"Joining Manchester United is one of the best days of my life," Buttner told the club's official website. "It's a team I have admired for many years now and I can't wait to join my teammates and play my part in helping the club be successful."
Ferguson added: "Alexander is one of the best young left-backs in Europe and we're delighted to sign him. He's someone we've been watching for a while now. He gives us some really exciting options in that position."
The Red Devils also announced the imminent signing of 18-year-old striker Henriquez from Universidad de Chile. "United have announced that Angelo Henriquez has been granted a governing body endorsement which will allow the striker to register and play for the club," the club said in a statement.
"The 18-year-old will play his final game for Universidad de Chile against Santos on Wednesday and a further announcement on him joining the Reds will be made in due course."
