United, in keeping with the new policy on transfers, have revealed the breakdown of the payments involved in the deal. Paris St-Germain are to receive £5.7m - £3.4m in July, £1.3m on 31 December and £1m in July 2005. A £0.3m fee is potentially payable under the five per cent solidarity levy imposed by Fifa, the world governing body, a £0.3m levy is payable to the FA Premier League and £0.6m in fees is payable to agents for the acquisition of the player and the negotiation of his contract.
He also has a German passport so there are no worries with EU restrictions. The BBC say he has a German father and an Italian mother.
The man himself: "I'm extremely proud to sign for such a great club.
"It's a very important step in my football career to join Manchester United and I have faith and great belief that I can meet the high expectations required.
"We have not yet discussed which position I will play.I don't know whether it will be in central defence or left back. All they said is that they wanted me.
"They have shown great motivation to snatch my services even though I did not talk directly with Sir Alex Ferguson.
"I have a lot of things going through my mind. I have loads of emotion about leaving PSG. I owe them a lot.
"The club and the supporters will have an important place in my heart for what they have done for me the last three years. I will never forget them.
"But my dream is coming true by joining Manchester United. I am going to keep working hard on the other side of the channel."
SAF: "We have been monitoring Gabriel for a long time and he demonstrates all the qualities of the top Argentinian defenders – strength, speed and excellent technical ability. He can play either as a central defender or left back and this flexibility means that he is a great acquisition for the Club."
David Gill: "This is a great signing for Manchester United. We are always looking to strengthen our squad and the qualities that Gabriel will bring will be a tremendous asset as we prepare for the challenges of the new season ahead."
And a bit more from Heinze: "I left Argentina after just eight games with Newells Old Boys and I went to Valladolid, a small club in Spain.