Gary Neville and John O'Shea believe midfield transfer target Owen Hargreaves would be a quality addition to the Reds' squad.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed on Friday that United are close to signing the Bayern Munich man who was named England's best player at the World Cup.

Bayern are standing firm in their quest to hold on to Hargreaves, but, like their manager, Neville and O'Shea are hopeful he'll soon be on his way to Manchester.

"He has come through the difficult times where he has not been appreciated and now he is showing everybody what a player he is," declared Neville.

"I certainly recognise what a great talent he is. As a defender it makes it so easy for you when you have someone like that in front of you because he is everywhere.

"It's laughable that people don't see him for the player he is and the telling contribution he has made to Bayern Munich's success.

"He is versatile, so quick to the ball, his temperament is incredible and his legs and his pace are very good as well," added the United skipper.

"We have had good players down the years who have played in the midfield holding role like Roy Keane and Paul Ince and you have to have that sacrificial mentality and be a real team player. It's not a glory role but it is appreciated within the team.

"Sometimes your natural instincts as a player are to go forward but sometimes you have to see the needs of the team is to stay and hold. Owen is definitely a team player and everyone recognises that."

O'Shea echoed Neville's