Potters confirm United interest

Stoke City director of football John Rudge has confirmed that Manchester United are interested in goalkeeper Ben Foster.

The 22-year-old, who is number three in the custodial pecking order at The Britannia Stadium, attracted plenty of attention for his performances on loan at League Two side Wrexham last season.

Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson was impressed with Foster after watching him in last season's LDV Vans Trophy final.

Ferguson is thought to see Foster as a prospect that can be groomed into a future United number one.

Rudge confirmed that the Premiership giants have enquired about the young keeper, but that no firm bid has been received for Foster.

"Manchester United have shown interest in Ben after Alex watched him play for Wrexham in the LDV Vans Trophy final last season," Rudge told Stoke's official website.

"Obviously, they've just signed Edwin van der Sar and they've also got Tim Howard at the club and we'll have to see if any progress will be made in the coming weeks."

Meanwhile, New Potters signing Peter Sweeney has been dealt an injury blow after scans confirmed he has a fracture in the base of his back.

The promising midfielder, who joined Johan Boskamp's side on a three-year deal from Championship rivals Millwall at the start of January, is expected to be sidelined for around two to three months.