The 29-year-old defender has been trying to force a move away from Old Trafford and the Premier League have nominated an independent arbitration panel to give a verdict.

After a two day inquiry the move has been ruled out. The panel said that the letter signed by the Red Devils chief executive David Gill confirming a sum ($13.4 million) at which United would be willing to sell does not allow the player to leave for any destination.

Gill and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson attended the hearing and were relieved after the decision and they made it clear to Heinze that he won't be allowed to join one of its title rivals and that he should be looking for a move abroad.