Manchester United have gained a work permit for their Angola striker Manucho.

The 25-year-old was offered a three-year contract by the Old Trafford outfit last December - but did not receive official clearance.

He then went out on a three-month loan to Greek side Panathinaikos.

"When we looked at the rules we found that he qualified for a work permit automatically," United Chief Executive David Gill told MUTV.

"He's 25 years-old and has got a lot of great attributes.

"You only need to look at the goals he scored at the African Nations Cup to see that and I think he brings something different to the team."

Manucho was one of the stars of the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, scoring four goals as the Palancas Negras progressed to the quarter-finals.

"He's got a little injury at the moment but we're looking forward to him getting fit and showing us what he can do; he's a great prospect," added Gill.