Manchester United have surprised everyone by signing a 24-year old Angolan striker who goes by the name of Manucho Goncalves. Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed his signing in a pre-match press conference and he will join up with his team after the African cup of nations.

Manucho has been the top-scorer of the Angolan league for the past two seasons. In addition, he has already won a handful of international caps, scoring 2 goals for his country. United were made aware of his talents through Carlos Queiroz's contacts and subsequently United took him on trial for 3 weeks. He is said to have impressed the United staff and officials during the trial and therefore, a 3 year deal was offered to him which was accepted. He adds to the Portugese-speaking
contingent among the United players. According to Manucho, Ronaldo and Nani have already been of great assistance for him in his time at United so far.

As far as his contribution to the team is concerned, I don't think he will feature too much, if at all this season. This is because foreign players take at least 6 months to adjust to the English game. Next season, he may replace the injury-prone Louis Saha. Sir Alex has described him as being a tall, agile striker. Therefore, I think he might not be the finisher United fans have been crying for. He sounds more like a striker with a physical presence in the penalty area and good aerial ability. If he turns out to be anything like Drogba, I will be quite pleased. Having said that, Manucho's signing is a gamble by United and only time will tell if this gamble will pay off.

These days the biggest news is Berbatov's likely departure from Spurs. I think United will be a great destination for him as his type of is what United lacks now; a quality finisher. But I do think Berbatov's signing in this transfer window by United will be more of a luxury than a necessity and he looks more likely to join Chelsea or any European team.

Alan Hutton of Glasgow Rangers was also linked with United last weekend. He is a quality right-back who is brilliant in attack as well. He has earned rave reviews for his performances this season, especially his outstanding display against Barcelona in the Champions League and looks set for a move away from Scotland. With Gary Neville' continuous injury problems and Wes Brown's possible departure, United's right-back slot is up for grabs. Hutton has the potential to be a Neville's long-term successor at United, but let's see if Sir Alex is willing to take him on.

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