Manchester United have confirmed David Moyes will join the club on a six-year deal from July 1.

Manchester United have appointed Sir Alex Ferguson’s recommendation David Moyes to replace the 71-year-old as manager at Old Trafford.

Moyes, out of contract at the end of the season, leaves Everton after 11 years in charge at Goodison Park.

The 50-year-old Scot has agreed a six-year deal and will replace Ferguson.

“We unanimously agreed on David Moyes,” said Ferguson.

Everton said in a statement :  “Everton can confirm that David Moyes will leave the club at the end of the season. The manager met chairman Bill Kenwright early yesterday evening and confirmed his desire to join Manchester United. The chairman, on behalf of the club, would like to place on record his thanks to David for the massive contribution he has made to Everton since his arrival in March 2002. He has been an outstanding manager.”

Moyes was installed as favourite to leave Everton for United following a rush of bets over the weekend, even before speculation mounted about Ferguson’s retirement.

A six-year contract is a huge show of faith in Moyes and a clear signal that United sought continuity when replacing Ferguson, who will stay on as a member of the board. 

Jose Mourinho had also been linked with the post but the Real Madrid coach’s abrasive style had previously attracted criticism from United legend Sir Bobby Charlton.

Moyes has not won a trophy in his time at Goodison Park but United’s hierarchy – and no doubt Ferguson – have been impressed by the stability he has brought and his ability to keep Everton punching above their financial weight.

This is the message posted on Man Utd’s Facebook page on Thursday afternoon.

Moyes will be charged with plotting United’s campaign to win back the Champions League trophy they last won against Chelsea in Moscow in 2008.

Paying tribute to his fellow Scotsman, he said : “I am delighted that Sir Alex saw fit to recommend me for the job. I have great respect for everything he has done and for the football club. I know how hard it will be to follow the best manager ever, but the opportunity to manage Manchester United isn’t something that comes around very often and I’m really looking forward to taking up the post next season.”