By Chris O'Brien
August 10 2006

Michael Carrick has completed his move to Old Trafford in a fee which could rise as high as £18.6million. The 25-year-old will take over the number 16 shirt; the jersey infamously vacated by Roy Keane back in November 2005.

Michael Carrick has completed his big-money move to Manchester United.

The England midfielder moves to Old Trafford from Spurs in a deal which could be worth a massive £18.6million, causing many supporters to question whether the club have overpaid for their first summer signing.

"It's an offer that has come at the right time - professionally and personally." said the former West Ham United man.

Carrick went onto insist reasons behind his love were not financial: "I felt I couldn't turn it down. This is a football decision, a decision not driven by money."

There is little doubt United have signed one of the country's most promising midfielders. His performances at White Hart Lane last season helped propel Tottenham to Uefa Cup qualification, and drew the attention of some of Europe's top pundits. However, critics have been quick to point out his lack of goals and there is little doubt that the jury will be out as to whether this is another Sir Alex Ferguson master stroke or an expensive flop.

Carrick has been handed squad number 16. The 25-year-old will be the first United player to wear the jersey since Roy Keane's high-profile departure in November 2005, and will add to the weight of expectation on the player's shoulders. He is expected to form an exciting midfield partnership with the returning Paul Scholes, and fans will get their first glimpse at the duo in action as the Red Devils embark on the Netherlands the Amsterdam Tournament.

Welcome to Old Trafford.

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Carrick Career Statistics:

Club	Dates	Fee	Appearances	Goals
Manchester United	07/2006 -	£18,600,000	-	-
Tottenham Hotspur	08/2004 - 07/2006	£2,750,000	75	2
Birmingham City	02/2000 - 03/2000	Loan	2	0
Swindon Town	11/1999 - 12/1999	Loan	6	2
West Ham United	08/1998 - 08/2004	Signed	158	6
Total			241	10