Manchester United new boy Shinji Kagawa said he could not turn down a chance to play in the English Premier League and admitted his preference to play just behind the striker.

Kagawa is aware of the competition he faces in securing a regular starting role for United as he sets about completing a move to the Red Devils from Borussia Dortmund, once he passes a medical and a work permit is granted.

"I want to play (in the hole)," the Japanese playmaker told a press conference in Tokyo. "I feel that's where I play my best football. I plan to work hard so I can win my place in the position.

"United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and I have been given a chance to play for them. I took a lot of things into consideration, like the fact that they've got a deep squad, their style of football and it wasn't an easy decision. But I wanted the challenge."

Some of the biggest clubs in the world were interested in Kagawa's signature, but the midfielder admitted once United came calling, his decision as easy.

"There were talks with other clubs, but United were the first to make me a formal offer and the more I talked to them, the more I felt Manchester was the place for me," he said.

"I met (Ferguson) and contacted him a few times afterwards. I thought we hit it off, which meant a lot to me. He told me, 'Don't worry about a thing, trust me. I would love it if you could take on this huge challenge'.   

"When a legendary man like him says that to you, it carries a lot of weight."

Kagawa said he was excited to play in a league that consists of several big teams, all capable of winning the title.

 "It's the best league in the world. You've got the world's biggest clubs like (Man) City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea all in the same league, which is fascinating.

"In the Bundesliga, the only games that compare are the ones against Bayern Munich. I feel like I'd be able to gain so much by playing big games on a regular basis, including the Champions League. I can't help but be excited."