New Manchester United signing Michael Owen admits he was shocked to receive an offer from Sir Alex Ferguson this week.

Owen said the move was a dream after only Hull had made their interest public until the striker received a call from Ferguson on Wednesday.

He said: "A few days ago I didn't have this in my wildest dreams. Now I don't think I'll be able to sleep, thinking about all the top players I'll be playing with here.

"I had just begun to talk to other clubs when out of the blue Sir Alex phoned me on Wednesday. He invited me to have breakfast with him the next morning, during which he told me that he wanted to sign me. I agreed straight away.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands.

"I'm now looking forward to being a United player and I'm fortunate I know so many of the players here.

"I missed pre-season last year and am pleased I'll start here from day one.

"I want to thank Sir Alex for showing faith in me and I gave him my assurance I'll repay him with my goals and performances."

Owen will earn a basic salary of £50,000-a-week - plus huge bonuses depending on goals and appearances.

And the former Real Madrid and Newcastle ace is aiming to grab some silverware after his days at the very top level looked over. He said: "Everything happened so quick and now I think 'wow!'

"You think Manchester United, you think winners and trophies."