Manager Alex Ferguson needs to rush a deal through before tomorrow's transfer deadline and is said to be trying to contact Blackburn manager Graeme Souness who is abroad.

"I’ve heard nothing about this," said Kelly, who looks set to be relegated to the bench in favour of Newcastle’s Shay Given for the Ireland's World Cup qualifier against Cyprus in Nicosia on Saturday.

But a temporary move to Old Trafford and the chance of European action would clearly be a splendid prospect for the former Sheffield United goalkeeper who is now also only second choice at Ewood Park behind American Brad Friedel.

United are desperate to sign an extra goalkeeper with vital games coming up against Liverpool at Anfield a week on Saturday and the following Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final clash at home to Bayern Munich.

French ace Barthez pulled out of last Saturday’s 2-0 win over Leicester City after injuring a thigh muscle during the warm-up.

Dutchman van der Gouw, his usual deputy, is still recovering from a knee operation - and United’s only other option is American-born youngster Paul Rachubka who made an emergency Premiership debut against the Foxes last weekend.