Heinze to sign for United in £6m deal

MANCHESTER UNITED are now expected to complete the signing of £6 million-rated defender Gabriel Heinze today.

It was widely believed the deal would have been sealed today but ratification has still to be confirmed.

As a plc, United have to make an announcement through the Stock Exchange and at the close of business there was no such statement.

Argentina international Heinze has reportedly passed a medical and agreed personal terms.

So it would appear only minor details are causing a hold-up.

He is poised to move from Paris St Germain after an impressive season with the French club.

The 26-year-old was one of the most consistent performers in the league, with a string of dazzling displays.

United have never disguised their interest in Heinze, who is a regular on the international circuit.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been looking to strengthen his defensive options with Rio Ferdinand receiving an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test.

Heinze's imminent arrival means Ferguson will have spent around £13m already this summer to reinforce his squad.

United splashed out £7m to bring in striker Alan Smith from Leeds.

Heinze was signed by PSG from Real Valladolid three years ago and was linked with Chelsea last season.

He is not only unknown in England but also to many in his native land.

"I left Argentina after just eight games with Newell's Old Boys," and I went to Valladolid, a small club in Spain. So those who say I am an unknown in Argentina are quite right.

"But now I feel that the gamble I took is paying off, and I'm proud of what is happening with my career."

Meanwhile, Chelsea maintain there was "no formal offer" made to Ronaldinho, despite the Brazilian claiming he turned down a move to Stamford Bridge.

Ronaldinho has signed a new deal with Barcelona which sees the transfer clause in his contract rise to £100m, with Chelsea reported to be tracking the forward.

"You know why I didn't go to Chelsea even though they offered me more than £55m? Because I love football, to play it attractively and to be spectacular," he said.