Manchester United have signed Angolan forward Manucho from Petro Athletico. The striker, whose full name is Mateus Alberto Contreiras Goncalves, has spent time on trial Old Trafford and arrives from the Angolan side on a three-year deal.

The 24-year-old Angola international, who has scored twice in 10 appearances for his country, has agreed personal terms and will join the Club in January on a 3-year deal, subject to a work permit.

"We have had Manucho here for a three-week trial and have been impressed enough to offer him a contract," Sir Alex Ferguson, the United manager, said.

"He is a tall, agile, quick forward and through contacts that Carlos (Queiroz) has, was brought to our attention around six months ago."

Manucho was top goalscorer in the last two seasons of the GiraBola, finishing with 16 goals for Petro Luanda in 2006 and 15 goals this year, and will be part of the Angolan squad for the African Nations Cup in January.