Updated Breaking News: United Sign Mexican Striker

That didn’t take long… Soccernet are reporting and the official site is confirming that Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Mexican striker Javier Hernandez from Chivas de Guadalajara. Apparently, Hernandez (better known as “Chicharito”) has already passed a medical and agreed to personal terms with United.

Interesting side point: “As part of the deal, the Club will play a match to open the new 45,000 capacity Chivas Stadium in Guadalajara as part of its 2010/11 season preparations.” So, it looks like United are coming to North America this summer! Prepare yourselves accordingly!

Sir Alex Ferguson, apparently taking a break away from disparaging other ethnic groups, stated “I am delighted to reach agreement with Chivas to bring such an exciting young striker, who has been in such prolific form for both his club and his country. He will be a great addition to our squad and we look forward to welcoming our first Mexican player in the summer.” Highlight videos after the jump.

That prolific goal scoring record? In 68 games for Chivas, Hernandez has netted 28 times (a goal scoring rate of .41 goals/game). Not bad for a 21 year old youngster who has also managed 4 goals in 4 appearances for the Mexican National Team. My guess is that we’ll be getting a better look at him this summer in South Africa, but for now, you’ll just have to be content with YouTube clips. Welcome Javier!

UPDATE: As I said, I know very little about our newest signing. So, I emailed Andrea over at the Chivas page. This was her answer about what to expect from Hernandez (I can’t believe how happy I am right now):

‘Chicharito’(the little Pea) has risen through the ranks quite quickly. It’s only been over the past year that he’s gained his first team place and exploded to earn a call up to the Mexican national team.

This is a really great move for him because he’s young and still has so much room to grow as shown by the past year with Chivas. He’s not that tall(5′9), but you would never be able to figure that out. He can compete with the tallest and he has physical presence. There are times when he falls over a little too easily, but he’ll be able compete in the Premier League without too much problem. He’ll adjust quickly. For reference, Carlos Vela and Hernandez were formed in the same place, but Hernandez is a more complete player. He has the same magic, but is more productive.

He’s good with both of his feet and great at headers too. One great thing about him is that he never gives up. Some players may be afraid to take a shot after a previous attempt ended up in the stands, but ‘Chicharito’ is different. He takes every shot that he has and if the previous one was completely blown, you’d never guess it because his confidence is just as high.

On and off the field he’s one of the most humble players. He never praises himself and always credits everything to the team. He’s very level headed. He also has a pre-game ritual where he goes to the center circle and kneels to pray that everyone is free of injuries. He’s very spiritual.

‘Chicharito’ has ‘football’ blood. His grandfather played for Chivas and was part of an important era for the club as well. ‘Chicharito’ got his nickname from his father who is nicknamed ‘Chicharo.”

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Category: Manchester United