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Last updated : 27 July 2006 By Ed

The Mirror reports that United are moving in for Javier Mascherano

Sir Alex Ferguson is in talks with Argentina World Cup star Javier Mascherano.

Fergie believes he has finally found the man to replace Roy Keane and Mascherano's agents arrived last night to discuss a move to Manchester United.

The defensive midfielder is valued at £25million by Corinthians, but United are expected to make the Brazilian club an opening offer of £16m.

The investment company behind Corinthians bought Mascherano from River Plate for £10m two years ago and the key to the move is how much profit they want from his sale.

United are prepared to dig deep for Mascherano, described by Diego Maradona as "a monster of a player and destined for great things".

And at the age of 22 he will have a resale value if he moves on from Old Trafford, which is the kind of deal that appeals to the Glazer family who own United.

Chelsea had looked at him but instead went for Michael Ballack and John Obi Mikel, leaving United in pole position - a rarity in the current transfer market.

Sir Alex will also sign Michael Carrick in a £16m deal after Tottenham admitted defeat in their battle to keep the England midfielder.