Updated

David Moyes is leaving Everton after the season and wants to replace Alex Ferguson as manager of Manchester United.

While United has not yet announced Ferguson's successor at Old Trafford, the statement from Everton on Thursday clears the way for Moyes to be hired by the Premier League champions.

Everton says on its website it "can confirm" that Moyes will be leaving. The team adds that Moyes met with chairman Bill Kenwright and "confirmed his desire to join Manchester United."

Ferguson said Wednesday he is retiring at the end of the season after more than 27 years in charge at United. Moyes has spent 11 years at Everton.