Red Devils track Real star and other red-hot gossip

(05-01-2011) Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Real Madrid defender Pepe. The Portuguese international's contract has not been renewed by Real, with his representatives demanding a significant wage increase for the 27-year-old. United are ready to move with a big offer if negotiations fail. Elsewhere, Tottenham have joined the race for Southampton's 17-year-old midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain; Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has told winger Daniel Sturridge he will not be allowed join Liverpool on loan; Japanese international forward Keisuke Honda has issued a come-and-get-me-plea to Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson; and Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has added to Hodgson's complications at Liverpool by revealing he will look to leave the club if he cannot regain a regular first-team place.