Michael Jackson is to perform a summer residency at London's O2 arena.

The 50-year-old singer arrived into the UK on March 3 with his three children - Prince Michael, 10, Paris, nine and five-year-old Prince Michael II - in preparation for the 30-date comeback, which is expected to raise the cash-strapped star ￡150 million.

The "Thriller" star flew into Luton airport where he was shielded by a team of security guards, before being taken by a white limousine to a hotel in Knightsbridge, West London, to prepare for the official announcement March 5.

Michael has already exchanged contracts with the 20,000 seat venue and is to reveal the exact dates of the residency at a press conference, as well as possibly confirming a new album.

Tickets for some shows are expected to go on sale soon, with more to follow depending on fan demand.

It is believed the series of concerts will be the only live performances Michael - who has not been to the UK since a disastrous appearance at the 2006 World Music Awards - gives this year.

In 2007, it was reported Michael - whose finances have been dwindling away since his 2005 child molestation case, of which he was acquitted of all charges - was planning to perform at the venue in an effort to solve his money woes.

A source said at the time: "The general consensus is that Michael has the fan base to attract enough people from all over the world to make this a huge success.

"Booking The O2 up for more than a couple of nights might seem a big gamble on his and his promoters' part, but just think of the history. People will flock to witness Michael cover his back catalogue."

(China Daily/Agencies March 5, 2009)