Sneijder agrees terms with United

Sneijder was forced to compromise on his initial wage demands of £250,000-a-week, but an agreement has been struck and the move is close to completion.

United owners the Glazers have sanctioned the £35m fee for the 27-year-old World Cup star as a replacement for Paul Scholes, who retired at the end of last season.

Chief executive David Gill met his counterparts at Inter in Zurich yesterday, at a scheduled meeting of the European Club Association.

It is understood Gill made clear United's willingness to pay £35m for Sneijder, with an official bid expected to be lodged within the next 48 hours.

Although Inter appeared reluctant to sell, they have accepted they cannot turn down such a lucrative bid and are ready to accept United's offer.

The capture of Sneijder will take United's summer spending to £85m, following the combined £50m outlay on Ashley Young, David De Gea and Phil Jones.

Gill was hopeful of concluding the Sneijder deal before he flies out to the US tomorrow to join up with the United squad on their pre-season tour.

Sir Alex Ferguson's significant transfer spending is proof of his desire to keep United ahead of the pack next term, and maintain their success on the back of last season's title triumph.

"Absolutely, that's what we are always trying to achive," said Fergie.

"The great thing about United, and what I try to achieve, is to have a foundation. And the foundation is strong in Manchester United, very strong.

"Our youth coaches are very good, and the Academy, excellent coaches we have there and given the regulations they work under they do a great job.

"It's always been a part of the club to bring young players through from the youth team.

"I was going to bring Paul Pogba along, to be honest with you, but it would then mean huge numbers, you know, I think when we all meet up, finally, in New York.

"Javier Hernandez joins us there and then we'll have 29 players or something like that, which is a lot on tour, but in some way we'll have to cope."