LONDON: According to various media reports in Britain, Sir Alex Ferguson is weighing up the option of signing the former Newcastle, Real Madrid and Liverpool player who is now out of contract.

The sensational move has gained more credence after the odds of Owen moving to Old Trafford were slashed by British bookmakers.

With Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez leaving United, the club is looking to add to their striking options. Having missed out on Karim Benzema, United have now turned their attentions to Owen - all pending a medical at Old Trafford.

If Owen does move, it would conclude one of the most unexpected transfers in English football history.

The 28-year-old's glittering career had looked to be all but over after previous transfer rumours had linked him to teams in the lower half of the league, but the former England international's luck now seems to have changed.

Nevertheless, the move will not go down well with some United fans because of Owen's links with Liverpool as well as his infamous injury record.