Forlan exits Old Trafford for Villareal

Manchester United tonight agreed to sell Diego Forlan to Spanish club Villarreal.

The 25-year-old Uruguay striker has failed to hold down a first-team place at Old Trafford since his move from Independiente in January 2002.

And, following the summer signing of Alan Smith from Leeds, he has been deemed surplus to requirements despite injuries to front-line strikers Ruud van Nistelrooy and Louis Saha.

A statement on the club’s official website www.manutd.com, read: “Manchester United has reached agreement with Spanish club Villareal for the transfer of Diego Forlan.

“The transfer will be completed upon agreement of Diego’s personal terms and completion of his medical.”

Forlan scored 10 goals in 63 Premiership appearances for United.

Mariam Solsona, spokeswoman for the Spanish club, confirmed: “He has agreed a five-year deal. He is flying into Valencia at around 10.30pm tonight and he will be presented at 1pm tomorrow after his medical.”