By Chris O'Brien
December 25 2005

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has agreed a fee, thought to be in the region of £6million, for Spartak Moscow's Nemanja Vidic. The 24-year-old has built a reputation as one of the continent's most solid defenders.

Manchester United are set to bolster their defensive ranks after agreeing a fee with Spartak Moscow for highly-rated defender Nemanja Vidic, rumoured to be in the region of £6million.

The Serbian international has been on fantastic form for the Russian-based club, alerting the attention of club's across the continent when he announced his intentions to leave Eastern Europe during the January transfer window.

Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to have fought off interest from Liverpool, AC Milan and Fiorentina to agree a fee for the 24-year-old defender. The player is thought to be anxious to complete a move to Old Trafford and will fly over to Lancashire over the festive period to finalise personal terms and sign on the dotted line.

"I am delighted the two clubs have come to an agreement," said the Scotsman. "Nemanja is a quick, aggressive centre-half and will be a terrific addition to the squad."

The former Red Star Belgrade is a typical 'Eastern' defender with plenty of grit and determination. He has built a reputation has a solid, no nonsense defender who could well form a formidable partnership with Rio Ferdinand at the heart of United's defence.

Vidic looks set to make his debut, all being well, at Burton Albion for the third round F.A Cup tie.