Premiership: Forlan chooses Man Utd

Manchester United appear to have beaten Middlesbrough to the signing of Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan from Independiente.

Boro thought they had landed the 22-year-old when they travelled to South America and had a £6.9m bid accepted.

However, Independiente cooled towards Middlesbrough when the Teessiders revealed they wanted to pay the fee in instalments, allowing United to step in and match the asking price.

Independiente were desperate for money following the economic crisis in Argentina and wanted a one-off payment.

Forlan, who will sign a four-and-a-half year contract at Old Trafford, said: "Manchester is a big club and I decided to go to Manchester.

"We have had an offer so I only have to sign the contract."

Forlan is expected to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms in Manchester this afternoon.

The Uruguayan claimed he opted for a move to Old Trafford because of "the things that Manchester United offer more than Middlesbrough".

He added: "When people in Argentina asked me where do I want to go always I said England because for me it is something that I love and playing in Manchester is important for me."

The highly-rated striker set his sights on first meeting the United management team before he considers his likely role on the pitch.

He added: "Firstly I have to sign the contract meet the coach and the people there."

United are understood to have matched Independiente's asking price of £6.9m and it seems Alex Ferguson has beaten former assistant Steve McClaren to his signature.