Michael Owen could be a Manchester United Football Club player before the weekend.

The former Liverpool striker is available on a free transfer following the end of his Newcastle United contract, and he appeared to be struggling to attract interest.

Hull City and Stoke City were both said to be in the running for his signature, but the 29-year-old must have had to have pinched himself when Sir Alex Ferguson entered the race.

It is believed Owen is now in Manchester to undergo a full medical at the Reds training base in Carrington, with the view to a deal being signed by the end of the day.