Manchester United were also tracking Alba but his preference was to remain in Spain and the Old Trafford club will now turn to Everton’s Leighton Baines.

Alex Ferguson will likely now shift his focus to Everton left back Leighton Baines. Reports in England claim that United are not ready to meet the asking price from Everton. United are offering cash plus player looking to sweeten the deal. The question now becomes whether Ferguson will be able to find a long term replacement or wait for another season to sign Evra’s replacement.

Manchester United have been chasing Everton’s 27-year-old fullback since the end of the English Premier League season. The talented Toffee is currently away on international duty with the English National team as they prepare for their Group D opening match against France in the 2012 UEFA European Championship.

Although Baines is not likely to feature in the first team prominently due to Chelsea’s Ashley Cole proving to still be at the top of his game at the age of 31, Baines is none the less a top target for the Red Devils.

Baines is expected to be brought in as the long term replacement of Patrice Evra. The French international will be in action against Baines’ England side on Monday June 11th, but he is thought to be winding down the days of his Manchester United career.

At his age however, Baines is not likely to move if he will be kept out of the first team on a weekly basis. If a deal goes through, Evra is almost certain to be sold on to provide additional funds to the club.

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