Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United are not in the market for new summer signings after cooling reports he could sign Barton.
At various points in the summer, Samir Nasri, Luka Modric and Wesley Sneijder have all been linked with big-money moves to United ... and now the spotlight is on Barton.
Sir Alex Ferguson: "We are always looking for good quality players.
"We started the season with the players we have and I am satisfied with that.
"We are not looking at the moment but we are looking at combinations of central midfielders now at the club."
Barton, currently in Holland with Newcastle United reserves, said: "I am happy at Newcastle, I have always said that.
"I wanted to sign a new deal with the club, and that has not changed."
THE LATEST BETTING ON WHERE BARTON WILL END UP THIS SUMMER:-
Man Utd 2/1
Arsenal 3/1
Tottenham 5/1
Everton 7/1
Aston Villa 10/1
Liverpool 12/1
Stoke 14/1
West Ham 16/1
Chelsea 20/1
Man City 40/1
Sunderland 40/1