The Barclays Premier League champions are believed to be close to agreeing a deal with Tevez's owners - sports investment firm MSI - which will turn his current two-year loan deal into a permanent move.

United chief executive David Gill earlier this week admitted: "We have spoken to Carlos and see him as part of our long-term squad.

"We have been pleased with his first season. He is a good age - a great player and well liked within the team.

"We know what we have to do and what we have to pay. The only issue is that we would have to sort out a long-term contract for him.

"But it's not a problem - we can do it in September, October, November or December."

Without a new contract, the 24-year-old Argentina striker would be free to talk to other clubs in January.