Owen Hargreaves has completed his move to United from Bayern Munich, putting pen to paper on a four-year contract with the Barclays Premier League champions.

The England international midfielder, 26, was relieved to officially become a contracted United player after a lengthy transfer saga.

"It's been a long time coming," Owen exclusively told ManUtd.com. "It was probably the worst-kept secret in football, but it's great to be here."

Hargreaves' move to Manchester was mooted by the tabloids for almost a year, following his outstanding displays for England at the 2006 World Cup.

Bayern were reluctant to let him leave without a fight, twice rejecting bids before eventually relenting - and Owen is delighted with the end result.

"I think it's great to finally reach a positive conclusion," he said. "Especially after all the time and energy that's been put in from everyone involved!"