Bordeaux's Gabriel Obertan joins Manchester United

Manchester, England:

Manchester United continued to revamp its attacking options after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo by signing winger Gabriel Obertan on a four-year contract from French champion Bordeaux.

United manager Alex Ferguson had been watching the 20-year-old French winger's development for several years.

"We are delighted to get him now as he is an exciting prospect," Ferguson told the club's Web site. "We like to get young players and develop them, and we will see that in Gabriel over the next two years."

No further details were immediately given about the size of the transfer fee.

"I am very happy to join Manchester United," Obertan said. "This is a big opportunity for me to play at such a great club. I am very excited to be here and I look forward to proving what I can do."

Obertan, who has played for France's under 21 team, spent the second part of last season on loan to Lorient as he did not figure in Bordeaux coach Laurent Blanc's plans.

A highly rated prospect noted for his tricky footwork and pace, Obertan broke into the Bordeaux team three seasons ago and impressed with some dazzling cameo appearances as a substitute.

Ferguson recently sold world player of the year Ronaldo to Real Madrid for 80 million pounds ($141 million) and as part of his rebuilding has signed two wingers: Obertan and Antonio Valencia from Wigan for 17 million pounds ($30 million).

In perhaps the most surprising transfer so far this summer, Ferguson also signed former Liverpool striker Michael Owen from Newcastle United on a free transfer.

Obertan has scored three league goals in 55 games for Bordeaux, and one goal in 15 appearances for Lorient, although he is considered more of a provider than a scorer and can play on either flank.