Ferguson, who will stand down as manager at the end of next season, is excited by the offer because it would enable him to pursue his other interests including horse racing.

"The club are engaged in a programme of development which will see us operate academies in places like South Africa, China and other parts of the Far East," he said.

"I will visit these places and make a contribution, but it will probably only take up about 30 days a year.

"That suits me because it will leave me free to do other things."

Ferguson has big plans for when he retires from management and is looking forward to watching United play.

"I'm going to love going to United's games," he said.

"There are other things and I'd like to go to the Melbourne Cup, the Kentucky Derby and see more of America, possibly the southern states.

"But the club won't be talking to me about that until after the summer.

"I think they will be assessing possible candidates for the manager's job and then we will finalise things.

"I'm very happy with the way things are shaping up and I think it will be perfect for me."

Meanwhile, Manchester United have confirmed they will play a Singapore XI at the National Stadium on July 24.

More than 54,000 soccer fans are expected to attend the match.

United will also play in Kuala Lumpur on July 21 and in Bangkok on July 28.