Manchester United made a shock swoop for Michael Owen on Thursday before quickly finalizing a two-year contract with the former Newcastle striker. Having become a free agent at the end of last season, Owen had entertained offers from Stoke City, Hull City and Olympiacos before agreeing a pay-as-you-play contract at Old Trafford.
The injury-plagued striker appeared in only 31 matches last term but paced the Magpies with 10 goals. He turned out just 76 times for Newcastle in four seasons at the club.
Given that Owen is desperate to revive his career at a top club and Manchester United are hoping to fill a void left by the departing Carlos Tevez, the deal is a good one for both parties. Owen will have the opportunity to not only resurrect his reputation as an elite goalscorer, but also enhance his chances of getting into Fabio Capello's England team ahead of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. United, meanwhile, have added a former Ballon d'Or winner at no cost. It is thought that Owen will receive a base salary of 20,000 pounds per week - an amount that will grow incrementally as certain targets are met.
After completing a grueling medical examination at United's Carrington training facility, Owen told reporters he had agreed to Ferguson's overtures "without a second thought." He continued, "This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands. I am now looking forward to being a Manchester United player and I am fortunate that I already know so many of the players here. I missed pre season last year and am pleased that I will be starting at Carrington from day one. I want to thank Sir Alex for the faith he has shown in me and I give him my assurance that I will repay him with my goals and performances."
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