United close on Tevez deal

Manchester United are expected to make Carlos Tevez a permanent signing before the end of the year.

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.

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

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

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

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

The player's representative also confirmed on Saturday that Tevez's future is with the club and a deal is close.

Kia Joorabchian told Sky Sports News: "We will help him accelerate the deal to make sure it goes through. Everyone's keen to make sure his future is dealt with in the correct way.

"Manchester United have been fantastic with Carlos - he's very lucky to have them and they are lucky too because he's been very good for them.

"It looks like it should happen - but we don't know the timing, whether it will be a month, two or six. But we'll make sure when the time is right everything is done smoothly."