Louis Saha completes Old Trafford move

French striker Louis Saha completed his move from Fulham to Manchester United today after signing a five-and-a-half year contract…

French striker Louis Saha completed his move from Fulham to Manchester United today after signing a five-and-a-half year contract with the English champions.

In a statement to the London stock exchange United said that the 25-year-old cost £11.5 million.

Saha, who scored 15 goals for Fulahm this season, is ineligible for United's FA Cup fourth round match against Northampton Town on Sunday but may make his debut in the premier league game against Southampton the following Saturday.

Speaking at Old Trafford Saha said: "I am absolutely delighted, it's a dream come true. I would like to thank my family and all the people who have helped me through this, I am just happy everything turned out.

READ MORE

"To leave a great atmosphere like Fulham has been difficult, but I am glad to be joining one of the best clubs in the world.

Alex Ferguson admitted that the have been tracking the player for some time.

The Manchester United boss said: "We wanted to get him on a long contract, he is a young player we feel will develop into a very good one.

"Three years ago he played against us in the FA Cup and did very well and that is when our interest began.

"When Fulham came into the Premiership it was impossible to do any business at that point but we kept looking at him and this year we decided to make an offer.

"That was refused but it started the negotiations and we are delighted that we have been able to secure his transfer.

"Strikers we've brought to the club in the past have been very different but they all share a great enthusiasm to play the game.

"Louis has two good feet, he is very quick and aggressive and is good in the air. They are great assets to have and a little bit different from the players we have at the moment.

"It's fantastic to see a developing, quality player come to the club and in the next few years I expect him to be even better.

Saha will wear the United number nine shirt last worn by Andy Cole before his move to Blackburn Rovers.

The Premier League will receive £575,000, with agents picking up £750,000 for their part in the deal.