Luis Figo has said he would relish a move to England this summer.

The 32-year-old Portugal midfielder is contracted to stay at Real Madrid until the end of next season but has hinted he would prefer to leave before then. « Like any human being, I want to sort out my future as soon as possible, » said Figo.

« England has always been a dream because of the respect they have for professionals there and the prestige associated with playing there. »

The 107-times capped Figo began his career with Sporting Lisbon in 1989 before moving to Barcelona for £4.2m six years later. A controversial £37m switch to Real Madrid followed in August 2000.

He was named European Player Of The Year for 2000 and Fifa 2001 Player of the Year.

Moreover, Manchester United have been granted permission to extend the capacity of Old Trafford to about 76,000.

Trafford Borough Council has agreed to proposals to fill in the north-west and north-east corners of the ground, which will raise the attendance by 7,900.

The work is expected to cost United £45m but the seats - to be installed prior to the 2006/07 season - will earn the club an extra £5m every year.

« This will be of benefit to everyone, » said United director Phil Townsend.

The increased capacity will mean Old Trafford will be second only in size to the new Wembley (90,000) among football stadia in Britain.

Cardiff's Millennium Stadium holds 72,000 people and Arsenal's new ground at Ashburton Grove is set to accommodate 60,000 supporters