Pique has bright Reds future

Spain's top clubs have shown an interest in taking Gerard Pique to la Liga, but Sir Alex Ferguson says the defender is firmly part of United's plans.

Pique turned in another impressive display for the Reds on Wednesday and also scored his first goal for the club in the 4-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv.

The 20-year-old Catalan has proved this season that he is a valuable member of United's squad and an excellent understudy to Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

"I'm not surprised so many Spanish clubs want him," said Sir Alex. "He's 20, can play centre midfield and right back as well as in central defence. But we have no intention of letting him go."

Pique, who joined United as a 16-year-old from Barcelona's youth ranks, had a successful spell in Spain on loan at Real Zaragoza last term.

He joined United at the same time as Giuseppe Rossi in 2004. Sir Alex reluctantly let Rossi leave in the summer for Villarreal as the Italian striker sought first-team opportunities. But Pique will not be taking a similar route, his future lies firmly at Old Trafford.