Manchester United will not enter into any swap deals for transfer-listed midfielder Nicky Butt. The 28-year-old England star had his request for a move granted by Alex Ferguson this week after Butt became increasingly frustrated at his lack of first-team opportunities.
The Gorton-born midfielder knows his needs regular match action to keep his place in Sven-Goran Eriksson's England squad for this summer's European Championships and, after a decade of loyal service, now accepts his time with the Red Devils is coming to an end.
It has been suggestion Butt could head to Middlesbrough in a deal which would see Gareth Southgate moving in the other direction. However, Old Trafford officials will not countenance such a deal.
With an improved bid for Fulham's Louis Saha likely at some stage before the transfer window closes at the end of the month, United are anxious to raise hard cash, meaning Butt will not be allowed to go out on loan either.
Newcastle, Everton and Birmingham are also believed to be interested in securing the services of a player who has won six Premiership titles, an FA Cup and a Champions League winners' medal during his time at Old Trafford.