Roman raises United hopes

MANCHESTER United’s hopes of signing Tottenham’s Dimitar Berbatov have been boosted as Russia striker Roman Pavlyuchenko has claimed: “I am joining Spurs.”

The 26–year–old insists he is on his way to Spurs after a verbal agreement was reached between the north Londoners and his club Spartak Moscow.

“I can confirm that I am joining Spurs,” he said. “Right now I am getting my visa. As soon as it is ready I will fly to London to sign a contract.”

Pavlyuchenko, who impressed in Russia’s run to the semi–finals of Euro 2008 over the summer, claimed he will not feature in Spartak’s Champions League third–round qualifier against Dynamo Kiev tonight as he ties up his switch to England.

Although Spurs might insist that Pavlyuchenko’s arrival would have no impact either way on Berbatov’s future - they are short on strikers even if the Bulgarian stays - a move to United before the transfer window closes on Monday looks increasingly likely.