Rovers can't keep up with Jones and Co

The Barclays Premier League champions are thought to be close to completing the signing of the 19-year-old in a deal worth around 16 million.

There has been no official confirmation from either club but Jones was widely reported to have undergone a medical at United yesterday.

Roberts said: "When Manchester United come calling there aren't many clubs who keep their players.

"It's one of those things but hopefully he'll go on to bigger and better things and we'll improve and will be looking at the top ten next year."

United are thought to have beaten Liverpool and Arsenal to land the England Under-21 internationalist.

Jones only broke into the Rovers side in March last year but has quickly made a big impression at Ewood Park.

He recently endured a three-month lay-off with a knee injury but returned to finish the season strongly and he featured in the game last month that saw United clinch the title.

He is expected to be the first of a number of new faces at United this summer.

Aston Villa forward Ashley Young, Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez and Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea are all on Sir Alex Ferguson's wanted list, in addition to Luka Modric and Wesley Sneijder. Another defender, Raphael Varane of Lens, has also been linked.

Blackburn, after escaping relegation on the final day of the season, can now turn their attention to rebuilding.

Owners Venky's have stated their confidence in manager Steve Kean.