Ferguson says Berbatov could leave Man United

BILBAO, Spain (AP)—Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson says Dimitar Berbatov could leave the club at the end of the season.

The Bulgarian striker, signed for a record $48 million, has been used sparingly since being left off the squad for the Champions League final loss to Barcelona last year. Ferguson says he’s looking for an opportunity for significant playing time.

Ferguson says the club will pick up the 31-year-old player’s option. But he adds: “It is difficult for me to guarantee that. … It may lead to him looking elsewhere.”

Berbatov has 56 goals in 147 appearances for United since coming over from Tottenham in 2008.

Berbatov is on the squad for Thursday’s Europa League match at Athletic Bilbao.