Reports had suggested that United had increased their bid for the on-form Saha to £9.8million, and that the Cottagers were set to accept this bid. However, Fulham have denied these stories were true, and the asking price for the wanted man is now double what United's highest bid was.

Saha, who cost Mohammad Al Fayed £2.1million from Metz, has also attracted interest from Chelsea as their big-money owner looks to spend yet more money on his all-star squad over the January transfer window. Chelsea would be far more willing to spend such a large amount of money on Saha that United would, and if Fulham will really only accept £18million for the Frenchman, then I would expect Sir Alex Ferguson's interest in the 25-year-old to crumble over the coming days.

Saha struggled during his first two seasons at Craven Cottage, but he has really found his form this season which is the reason Fulham value him so highly. Chris Coleman has European Cup qualification ambitious for the Cottagers, and selling Saha could squander any slim chances that the Welsh boss has of propelling his side into a top 4 Premiership spot.

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