Defender Nemanja Vidic has completed his £7m move from Russian side Spartak Moscow to English giants Manchester United.

The Serbia and Montenegro international has been granted a work permit and is now expected to join up with his Old Trafford team-mates on Thursday.

Vidic, 24, had previously passed a medical and agreed personal terms with the Premiership side.

In a statement, the club said: "Manchester United is pleased to announce it has reached agreement with Spartak Moscow for the purchase of 24 year-old Serbia & Montenegro international defender Nemanja Vidic for an undisclosed fee.

"The player has signed a four-and-a-half year contract which will see him at the club until June 2010."

Sir Alex Ferguson: "Nemanja is a quick, aggressive centre-half and at 24 will be a terrific addition to the squad."

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson added: "I am delighted the two clubs have come to an agreement. Nemanja is a quick, aggressive centre-half and at 24 will be a terrific addition to the squad."

Vidic could make his United debut in the FA Cup third round clash with Burton Albion on Sunday.

Meanwhile, United have opened talks with French champions Monaco over a deal for defender Patrice Evra.

The French international, who has also been targeted by Italian side Inter Milan, is valued at around £6m by Monaco.