Ferguson to spend 100 million pounds to get new players

To prevent Manchester City from replacing arch rivals United as the dominant force in the English Premier League, Sir Alex Ferguson is all set to spend 100 million pounds to get new players this summer.

United could finish the season empty handed for only the fifth time in 23 years following Monday's derby defeat, which handed the title initiative to City.

Ferguson knows that his squad needs strengthening – especially after their failure to come through an easy Champions League group and early exits from the Europa League, the FA Cup and the Carling Cup, the Daily Express reports.

He is lining up bids for Eden Hazard of Lille, and Tottenham's Luka Modric to add some stardust and creativity to United's midfield department.

Ferguson is also eyeing Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente, who scored in both Europa League legs against United, to boost his attack.

Two full-backs are also being considered because Rafael Da Silva has proved unreliable and Patrice Evra, now 31, needs competition and cover. Valencia left-back Jordi Alba is on the radar.

Former United captain Gary Neville said Ferguson has no option but to strengthen this summer.

"I'm sure he'll improve his squad. I think he has to. He's an honest person and he'll recognise there are areas of the squad he needs to strengthen," he said.