Manchester United have pulled out of the running for Radamel Falcao, leaving the way clear for Chelsea to battle with Manchester City, according to the Sun.

Falcao is one of the most sought after strikers in Europe and reports in Spain had suggested that Ferguson was ready to offer Atletico Madrid Javier Hernandez plus cash to get the striker on board.

However, Ferguson has rubbished such rumours and this could now leave the door open for Manchester City and Chelsea to battle it out for the striker's signature.

When quizzed about the rumour, Ferguson bit back: "Do you honestly believe that? You amaze me you people."

Ferguson is in the hunt for a new striker even though he has denied suggestions that Wayne Rooney could be moved on, and Borussia Dortmund's Robert Lewandowski is said to be a target.

Rumours have surfaced that Chelsea are considering throwing Fernando Torres into the deal, which would see him return to the boyhood club he left 6 years ago for Liverpool.

With Mario Balotelli gone and Eden Dzeko seemingly on his way out as well, City have stepped up their pursuit of the 27-year-old Colombian.

Falcao joined Atletico in 2011 as a replacement for Sergio Aguero, who joined Manchester City.

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