Manchester United hope to announce the signing of Arsenal striker Robin van Persie today. United announced on Wednesday night that they had agreed a fee with Arsenal for the Holland striker, subject to him settling personal terms and passing a medical, which he will undergo in Manchester today.

Ferguson said: "He is on his way up from London for a medical later this afternoon.

"We hope that goes according to plan. His agent is in discussions with (United chief executive) David Gill right about now.

"We hope all the things will be tied up, although sometimes medicals do take a bit longer. I am sure he will be available for Monday's game."