Phil Jones makes deal with Manchester United

Manchester United have come out on top in the battle for Blackburn Rovers defender Phil Jones.

While the Under-21s player has not yet signed, the Red Devils have agreed the deal with Blackburn.

Jones’s move to Old Trafford had been expected to be confirmed today, after Sir Alex Ferguson made a bid of £16.5m last week, matching the amount stipulated in the player’s escape clause.

Other Premiership clubs including Spurs, Arsenal and Liverpool had been keen to attract the 19-year-old, with Kenny Dalglish making a £22m bid over the weekend.

Jones made 26 appearances for Blackburn last season.