Ferguson reveals length of hunt

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed his first enquiry for Owen Hargreaves came before the World Cup.

The Red Devils are currently attempting to prize Hargreaves from Bayern Munich's grasp, even though the Bundesliga champions have made it perfectly clear they are not interested in doing a deal for the 25-year-old at any price.

"We first enquired about Owen before the World Cup," Ferguson told MUTV.

Hargreaves has suddenly become one of the most sought-after properties in Europe, largely as a result of his performances in Germany this summer when he was virtually the only England player to enhance his reputation.

Ferguson added: "What he did in the tournament was a nightmare. I knew it would happen - it happens all the time. The boy wants to come so we hope to be able to do something."

With less than a fortnight remaining before the transfer window slams shut, Ferguson knows chief executive David Gill faces a tough challenge trying to persuade Bayern of the merits of Hargreaves' sale, knowing the German giants have already lost one key midfielder in Michael Ballack already this summer.

However, if Gill is successful in his quest, Hargreaves would be a welcome presence in the United dressing room according to utility man John O'Shea.

"Owen would be a good addition," O'Shea told PA Sport.

"There were lots of question marks around him before the World Cup but he showed in Germany what a quality player he is.

"Obviously, Bayern Munich are going to try to hold on to him, so we will just have to wait and see but he is a quality player."