Man Utd have announced the signing of midfielder Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and here are his first words.
Youri Tielemans said he wants to compete for the "biggest trophies" after signing for Manchester United. The Reds formally announced on Tuesday afternoon that Tielemans' transfer from Aston Villa had been completed, moving quickly to wrap up the deal.
United have paid £35million to sign Tielemans from Villa Park. The midfielder has signed a five-year contract.
Tielemans captained Belgium at the World Cup this summer. He played a key role as Villa won the Europa League last season and arrives at United having made 244 Premier League appearances.
In a statement, Tielemans said: “It’s hard to describe just how proud I am to join Manchester United. Signing for such a special club feels incredible, it is the culmination of years of dedication since I first fell in love with football.
“I have had the privilege of experiencing success in the game and it has only increased my determination to achieve more. The ambition from everyone at the club is extremely clear; we are all determined to push for the biggest trophies over the coming years.”
United's director of football Jason Wilcox added: “Youri has consistently been one of the most outstanding midfielders in the Premier League throughout the past seven years. He has all of the technical qualities, as well as the ambition and mentality, to thrive at Manchester United.
“Youri’s consistency is exceptional, and he will add further composure, creativity and leadership to our squad. We are delighted to welcome a player of his influence and experience, both on the pitch and within the dressing room, as we continue to build a team ready to challenge for the biggest honours."
Tielemans has become United's second midfield signing of the week following the announcement of Andrey Santos' transfer from Chelsea. The Brazilian was signed in a £50m deal and signed a five-year contract, with the option of another year.
United are set to make a third midfield signing before the end of the transfer window. A deal was agreed to sign Ederson from Atalanta in June, but United have decided to back away from the transfer.
Club sources initially denied the deal was off last week, but United chiefs have now decided they will not proceed with the deal at the proposed price and structure after receiving an indication of an issue during a medical.
United planned to overhaul their midfield this summer after Casemiro's exit following the expiry of his contract. Manuel Ugarte is also set to miss the majority of the campaign after suffering a knee injury at the World Cup.
