Mohammed Allie BBC Sport Online in Cape Town

Manchester United midfielder Quinton Fortune is set to be offered a new four-year deal by the club.

Despite making a limited number of first-team appearances since joining United four years ago, Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to retain the services of the South African international.

Speaking in Cape Town, the United manager confirmed the 25-year old midfielder was still part of his plans.

"Quinton is still a developing player, but he is improving," said Ferguson. "He will be staying at United and we are about to offer him a new four-year contract."

Fortune was one of the few South African players who stood out at the World Cup, which may have prompted Ferguson to keep him.

Last season the midfielder was transfer-listed, and during the World Cup was linked with a move to a top J-League side.

"Quinton had a great World Cup for South Africa," said Ferguson. "Unfortunately he later picked up an injury and had to miss a few of our games.

"But he recently came on as a substitute against Olympiakos in a European Champions League game and was in the squad when we played Everton on Monday.

"South Africa can be proud of Quinton. He is a great ambassador for the country and a true professional. When I told him I was coming to Cape Town, he asked if he could come along with me!"

Ferguson is in South Africa to explore linking up with the Cape Town Football Academy and the Pretoria-based Tuks Soccer Academy, which is headed by former United goalkeeper Gary Bailey.

United were previously involved in a development programme with FC Fortune, a club co-owned by the player and his manager, Colin Gie.