United put faith in Ferguson

Manchester United chief executive David Gill said the English Premiership champions were negotiating a new deal with manager Alex Ferguson.

The 61-year-old Scot, in charge at United since 1986, signed a new three-year deal in 2002 after changing his mind about retiring when United appeared set to make England coach Sven Goran Eriksson their new manager.

"We would like Sir Alex to continue and Sir Alex would like to continue so we are holding discussions and I'm sure they will come to a positive conclusion," Gill told Sky Sports television on Tuesday.

Ferguson has won eight league titles and the 1999 European Cup at United although he appeared to be on the way out when he went through his first four years without a trophy.

Frenchman Eric Cantona arrived from Leeds United in 1992 to inspire United to their first championship for 25 years.

Ferguson's fiery temper has also been exposed by England captain David Beckham in his recent autobiography.

Ferguson, always unhappy with Beckham's celebrity status, sold Beckham to Real Madrid in the summer.

United, currently third in the table behind London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea, announced pre-tax profits, boosted by sponsorship deals, of 39.3 million pounds (65.6 million dollars) on Tuesday.