Manchester United have signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35m.
The Belgium captain has signed a four-year contract at Old Trafford after United activated his release clause at Villa Park.
Tielemans said it was the culmination of his career to join United and described it as a “special” move for him.
He has become United’s third arrival of the summer after Andrey Santos joined from Chelsea for £48m and goalkeeper Karl Darlow came from Leeds on a free transfer.
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 turned to Tielemans after missing out on other midfield targets, including Elliot Anderson, who moved to Manchester City for £116m, and Mateus Fernandes, who Tottenham bought for £85m.
They also pulled out of a £35m deal for Brazilian midfielder Ederson after a medical revealed concerns, though United have not ruled out going back in for the Atalanta player.
But they moved on to Tielemans, who scored the winner when Leicester lifted the FA Cup in 2021 and stuck in Villa’s Europa League final victory over Freiburg in May.
United director of football Jason Wilcox said Tielemans’ proven track record in the Premier League formed part of his appeal.
Wilcox said: “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.”
