Gonzalo Higuaín has become the third most expensive player in history after signing for Juventus from Napoli in a deal worth €90m (£75.3m).

Higuaín’s transfer places him behind the Real Madrid pair Gareth Bale (£85m) and Cristiano Ronaldo (£80m) on the record list in a move that could clear the way for Manchester United’s much-anticipated move for Paul Pogba.

A statement on juventus.com read: “Juventus can today confirm it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuaín for €90m, payable in two financial years. The player has agreed a five-year contract.”

The Argentina striker scored 36 goals in 35 Serie A games last season as Napoli finished second in the table, nine points behind Juve.

Having moved to Europe with Real Madrid, joining from River Plate, Higuaín scored 107 goals in six and a half seasons and helped Real win three league titles and the 2011 Copa del Rey. He moved on to Napoli in 2013 and added the 2014 Coppa Italia to his list of honours.

The 28-year-old has won 63 caps for Argentina since his debut in 2009, scoring 32 goals and helping them reach the 2014 World Cup final and in the Copa America final this year and last – they were beaten on all three occasions.

The transfer was confirmed when Higuaín’s name appeared on a list of completed deals on the Serie A website. Napoli then announced on Twitter that Juve had met the player’s release clause.

Juventus said the signing of Higuaín does not mean they will be forced to sell Pogba but United remain hopeful of landing the France international. They have submitted an increased bid of £92m (€110m) plus £8m in add-ons but Juve are understood to want an additional £8m.