Exclusive by Phil McNulty Chief football writer

Miller has stunned Celtic by leaving

Terry Butcher insists Manchester United have got "a steal" after landing Celtic youngster Liam Miller in a shock deal.

Miller has signed a pre-contract deal to move to Old Trafford after rejecting a new offer at Parkhead.

Motherwell boss Butcher told BBC Sport: "Celtic will be raging about this. Manchester United have got a steal because he's a very big talent.

"No-one saw this coming. He was a big favourite at Celtic and I think he will make a serious impact in England."

Man Utd clinch Miller deal

Butcher has witnessed Miller at close quarters in his limited Celtic appearances - and is in no doubt that Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson has pulled off a coup.

"Celtic have been talking to him for a while and everybody thought he would sign a deal there. I think he will fit in well at Manchester United," said Butcher.

"He will have some tough competition at Old Trafford, but he's got the right pedigree to succeed there.

"He's not a big lad but he's a real battler, and he is someone who can get forward into the box - he's a typical Manchester United player in many respects."

Butcher has just sold Scotland midfield man Stephen Pearson to Celtic - but admits that may not soften the blow of Miller's departure from Parkhead.

He said: "It still won't offset the fact that Liam Miller was a big favourite and a very good prospect."