Ferguson revealed a few weeks ago the club were in negotiations with the Spanish side but the finalities of the deal were delayed by the player's involvement in the European Under-21 championships, which Spain won on Saturday.

With his international duty over Press Association Sport understands De Gea flew into Manchester today to undergo a medical.

Should that go to plan it is likely the 20-year-old's signing as the long-term successor to Edwin van der Sar, who retired at the end of last season, is expected to be confirmed.

United have already signed England Under-21 youngster Phil Jones from Blackburn and last week brought in Ashley Young from Aston Villa.