United may have to wait until next summer to sign American goalkeeper Tim Howard unless he is granted a work permit by the Home Office. Howard has agreed a 4-year deal but is still waiting to hear about his work permit. Planet Football reports that he is unlikely to gain the permit as he hasn’t gained the criteria of having played in 75% of his countries matches.
However Howard is waiting to see if he can get a Hungarian passport that should allow the move to go through a bit more smoothly. It’s reported though that if the move doesn’t happen this year he will be at OT in 2004.
Howard has apparently impressed at this years Confederations Cup especially by the USA boss. He said
"I think overall he had an outstanding tournament and I think it will give him a lot of confidence as he moves over the course of his career," said Bruce Arena.
"I think Tim has proven he's an outstanding goalkeeper,"
"He's played very well in this tournament. I've really been pleased with his performance."