Sir Alex Hints of Berbatov Exit This Summer

Manchester United`s Dimitar Berbatov (R) is watched by SL Benfica`s Luisao (L) during Champions League Group C match between Manchester United and Benfica at Old Trafford Manchester, Britain, 22 November 2011. EPA/BGNES

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov may leave the club during the upcoming summer transfer window, Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted.

During a press conference preceding Manchester United's Europa League clash against Atletic Bilbao on Thursday, Ferguson explained that the club will take up the option on extending Berbatov's contract.

However, he revealed that the Bulgarian's aspiration for first-team football may very well lead to a summer exit.

''His concern is not getting first-team football,'' Ferguson stated. ''At 31, he is looking at first-team football. It is difficult for me to guarantee that so it could lead to him looking elsewhere.''

''It is something we need to consider at the end of the season. For a player of his age and his ability it is disappointing for him that he is not getting first-team football," he added.

''We will look at the end of the season but until then, he remains at United.''

The prolific striker's struggle to make it into the Red Devils' starting eleven has given rise to a number of transfer rumors, the most recent linking him to Valencia and Sevilla.

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