Dimitar Berbatov today admitted being shocked at the extent of Sir Alex Ferguson's personal involvement in his £30.75million transfer to Manchester United.

Berbatov has confirmed the Scot met him at Manchester airport on Monday afternoon - the final day of the transfer window - to take him to the training ground.

Spurs hadn't given United permission to talk to Berbatov at that point and had agreed a £34m fee with Manchester City instead. But, despite threats of reporting United to the Premier League over their conduct, Spurs eventually caved in and agreed a deal with Ferguson's club.

The Bulgarian said: "I am flattered that he (Sir Alex) gave me so much of his time. He personally came to pick me up at the airport. It was a shock to me, but it was a pleasure to get to know him.

"The relations between Manchester United and Tottenham are quite tense, but the important thing is that all ended well."

When asked why he wasn't tempted by a move to Manchester City, he added: "Money is not all important. I was determined to play for Manchester United. I can live on £1,000 as well as £50,000. It makes little difference for me."