Fergsuon set for new deal

Man Utd chase Kezman

Sir Alex Ferguson's new four-year deal as manager of Manchester United is expected to be ratified on Friday.

A legal representative of the Old Trafford boss spent the weekend pouring over the details of the contract which is estimated to be worth £4m-a-year.

A verbal agreement is expected within 48 hours but chief executive David Gill cannot sign off the contract until he has received a green light from the PLC board.

That should be granted at Friday's scheduled meeting.

The deal will take Ferguson through to the age of 65 when he is likely to retire.

There were suggestions the club might withdraw its offer following treatment for a minor heart condition this week.

But Ferguson insisted this was never a threat to his future and eased any lingering worries after talks with chief executive Gill.

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"I have spoken to David Gill and he understands the situation. This will not affect my future here or the contract," said Ferguson.

He added: "We have agreed the details and I think it is basically straightforward. It wasn't going to be signed (Saturday) night but we are ready."

Ferguson had hospital treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat last Thursday, but the Scot said he had planned the visit for over two months.