http://www.bbc-news.org.uk/fetchArticle.php?refId=1327United shock swoop for Vieira
Friday, 20 August, 2004, 18:50 UK
Manchester United have announced to the stock exchange that they have completed the signing of Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira for a fee of £12.9m. The deal also sees Cristiano Ronaldo move to the North London club.
Vieira, a crucial member of the Arsenal team that went unbeaten last season, cited a "better chance at European success" as key reason for moving
Patrick Vieira factfile
The deal which involves United's young Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo making the move to Highbury, was announced shortly after 7pm to a shocked press conference.
Ronaldo, who returned to England earlier than expected after Portugal were surprisingly knocked out of the Olympics by Costa Rica, was said to be pleased with the move, but would not comment to journalists.
Neither players will be available for their repective clubs this weekend.
Fantastic business for Arsenal - the board must be rubbing their hands
From Robert Wilks
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Vieira's departure has been the speculation of the football world all summer, with Real Madrid thought to be his preffered destination. The 28-year-old, who is currently out of action with a thigh injury, says he looks forward to linking up with his new teamates.
David Dein the Arsenal chairmen, had just this to say "He told Arsene and me in early June that he wanted to leave and go to Real Madrid," he revealed.
"We obviously tried very hard to dissuade him, but his mind was very made up.
"We came within hours of losing him, maybe just an hour. Literally, just prior to signing off an agreement, he said 'I cannot leave the club', that seems to have changed when he learnt of Uniteds interest"
For his country, Vieira played under Didier Deschamps, who led France to victory in the 1998 World Cup, as well as Desailly.