The 24-year-old France international continues to be heavily linked with a move away from the Gunners, who are15/2to win the Premier League title next season.

However, Ferguson believes that his club will not win the race to sign Nasri, should he opt to move on.

The veteran Scot said from United's pre-season tour of the USA: "I don't think he is coming to United, that is all I can tell you. I think that he has agreed to go somewhere else."

Nasri has been linked with the Red Devils as a possible replacement for the retired Paul Scholes, as Ferguson prepares for his side's defence of their Premier League crown, which they are7/4to retain.

Ferguson admitted: "It is impossible to get another Paul Scholes, but if we get a player along similar lines in terms of the quality of his passing and vision, we would have to do something."

For his part, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is determined to try and keep hold of Nasri, despite the schemer having just one year left on his current contract.

He added clearly: "Samir's situation is clear - he stays."

Wenger is fighting a battle on two fronts, with captain Cesc Fabregas still being heavily linked with reigning European champions Barcelona, who are2/1 to win the Champions League again next term.