"When Sir Alex phoned me in 1999, I really wanted to join United," revealed van der Sar. "But it was impossible at the time because I had already committed myself to Juventus. I am delighted to sign for United, one of the most famous clubs in the world.”
United had released Roy Carroll and Ricardo but still considered Tim Howard as a first-choice option. Nonetheless, Ferguson felt £2 million was a steal for the veteran Netherlands international, even if the official figure was always undisclosed, as was to become the norm.
Gianluigi Buffon, Shay Given and Paul Robinson had all been linked with the club in various quarters but there was no doubting van der Sar's pedigree.
"Edwin brings a wealth of experience to the team,” stated Ferguson. “He is an international goalkeeper with proven class."