Manchester United has unveiled another central midfielder following the signing of Andrey Santos. Youri Tielemans is joining the Red Devils from Premier League rival Aston Villa.
Following Casemiro’s departure on a free transfer and Manuel Ugarte’s ACL tear—Ugarte had been considered a potential departure before his serious injury—new central midfielders were high on Manchester United’s priority list. The Red Devils’ management has now checked off the next item on that list: After Andrey Santos had already signed with Manchester, the team that finished third in the Premier League last season announced the signing of Youri Tielemans on Tuesday.
This was made possible by a buyout clause that, according to media reports, was set at 41 million euros.
“Youri’s consistency is exceptional, and he will bring even more composure, creativity, and leadership to our squad,” said Jason Wilcox, the Red Devils’ sporting director.
With the transfers of Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali (both to Tottenham), and Elliot Anderson (to Man City) falling through, a move by Ederson to England has likely become less likely as well. Manchester had actually already agreed to a transfer with the defensive midfielder and his club, Atalanta Bergamo, before the World Cup began.
Third Stint in England
For Tielemans, on the other hand, who has signed a contract through 2031, this is already his third stint in the English top flight. After being relegated with Leicester in 2023, the Belgian joined the Villans on a free transfer, where he played a major role in their Europa League triumph and Champions League qualification last season. In total, the 29-year-old made 35 appearances last season, scoring twice and providing seven assists.
“It’s hard to put into words how proud I am to now be playing for Manchester United. Signing with such a special club is an incredible feeling—it’s the culmination of years of dedication, ever since I first fell in love with soccer,” said Tielemans.
In Birmingham, Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi is reportedly emerging as a possible replacement. However, with a base transfer fee plus potential bonuses totaling 70 million euros, the Swiss player is significantly more expensive than Tielemans.
