Sir Alex Ferguson

The Scot’s decision to re-sign veteran Paul Scholes last season was viewed as an act of desperation by the anti-United brigade but news of the capture of the exciting Japan international, subject to a medical and work permit, must be taken as proof that the 70-year-old will not sit back and allow the club’s “noisy neighbours” to rule domestically.

Ferguson has historically concluded any close-season business swiftly, while counterpart Roberto Mancini has yet to show his hand in the transfer market since guiding City to a first title in 44 years.

The champions can be backed at 11/8 with totesport to win back-to-back Premier League titles, with United priced 2/1 to bounce back next season.

“Manchester United is delighted to announce that it has agreed terms with both Borussia Dortmund and Shinji Kagawa for his transfer to the club,” said a club statement.

“The deal is subject only to the player medical and obtaining a UK work permit. These conditions are anticipated to be completed by the end of June. Further details will be announced in due course.”

Ferguson made a personal check on Kagawa in the DFB Pokal win against Bayern Munich at the end of the season and the deal, costing an initial £12m, is expected to rise to £18m with add-ons.

At just 23, Kagawa has yet to peak and the size of the transfer should appease match-going supporters concerned about a lack of funds to strengthen an engine room shy on world-class creative talent.

They will now be hoping the game’s longest-serving manager does not stop at the signing of Kagawa in one last hurrah before sailing off into the sunset.

Embarrassed by their own high standards in Europe last season, United fared better on the home front and were only denied a record 20th domestic crown on goal difference on the final day of the season.

Cynics have argued winning it would have masked a number of personnel issues Ferguson must face if United are to compete against the best again.

A marquee centre-forward to complement England striker Wayne Rooney could now move to the top of Ferguson’s wish-list.

For now at least, the signs are positive that Ferguson is plotting one last great rebuild to cement his legacy.

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