Manchester United make it official: Youri Tielemans joins from Aston Villa

Manchester United have completed their third signing of the summer window, officially confirming the arrival of Belgium international Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. The deal, worth €41 million, was triggered by a release clause in Tielemans’ contract, meaning Villa had no say in the matter once United activated it. The 29-year-old midfielder agreed personal terms swiftly and passed his medical within 24 hours, making the announcement possible just a day after reports of United’s interest first surfaced. Tielemans becomes United’s third addition of the window, following the earlier captures of Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos – a deal that could rise above €58m – and goalkeeper Karl Darlow, who arrived from Leeds United. “It’s hard to describe just how proud I am to join Manchester United,” Tielemans said. “Signing for such a special club feels incredible, it is the culmination of years of dedication since I first fell in love with football.” He added that the club’s ambition to chase major trophies in the coming years was clear, and that he was determined to build on his past successes. United’s director of football Jason Wilcox praised the midfielder’s consistency and experience. “Youri has consistently been one of the most outstanding midfielders in the Premier League throughout the past seven years,” Wilcox said. “He has all of the technical qualities, as well as the ambition and mentality, to thrive at Manchester United.” The Belgian adds depth to United’s midfield as the club prepares for a return to the Champions League.