United in shock Owen swoop
03 Jul 2009 - 07:15:00
Michael Owen is preparing to have a medical at Manchester United in the shock transfer of the summer so far.
Reports claim the out of contract Newcastle United striker has agreed personal terms with the Old Trafford club and is now on the verge of sealing a deal to kick-start his career with the champions.
The injury-plagued striker was expected to continue his career in the Premier League with Hull City or Stoke City after both clubs expressed an interest in signing him on a free transfer.
However, Sir Alex Ferguson has made a surprise swoop for the 29-year-old former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker despite his injury problems.
The Red Devils are believed to have offered the currently out of favour England striker a pay-as-you-play deal.
Owen has made just 76 appearances and scored 30 goals during his four seasons with the Magpies following a £16million arrival from Real Madrid.
United have yet to officially confirm their interest but their pursuit of Owen on a free transfer is in direct contrast to their attempt to sign £30million-rated France striker Karim Benzema.
The 21-year-old rising star has opted to join Real Madrid from Lyon in recent days after snubbing a move to the Premier League.
United have also lost Cristiano Ronaldo to the Spanish club in an £80million deal and failed to persuade Carlos Tevez that his future lies at Old Trafford so far this summer.