LONDON (AP) - Manchester United agreed a fee with Spartak Moscow on Sunday for Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic.
The 24-year-old Vidic has been highly sought after since informing the Russian club of his intention to leave during next month's transfer window.
Champions League winner Liverpool and Italian side Fiorentina both expressed an interest in Vidic.
The fee was undisclosed.
Vidic will fly to Manchester to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.
"I am delighted the two clubs have come to an agreement," Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson told the club's Web site. "Nemanja is a quick, aggressive center-half and at 24 will be a terrific addition to the squad."
Vidic is expected to sign in time to play in the FA Cup game against non-league Burton on January 8 and make his first Premiership appearance when Manchester United takes on crosstown rival Manchester City the following weekend.
Vidic, who joined Spartak from Red Star Belgrade in July 2004, has become an important part of his national team's defense, which conceded just one goal in qualifying as Serbia and Montenegro secured a place in the World Cup finals.
United plays West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford in a full program of English Premier League matches on Monday.
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Why didnt we buy him??? I know the fee was undisclosed but it wouldn't have been marginally higher than 6 million quid, and trust me this is the one defender that I have been legitimately excited about !!! He's strong in the air, etc, etc. The end story is that he was someone we need, and mark my words he will do wonders for man utd. Does anyone else agree with me? disagree? Discuss!