Manchester United have moved swiftly to strengthen their midfield by agreeing a deal to sign Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa after deciding not to proceed with the transfer of Atalanta midfielder Ederson.
The transfer gathered pace on Monday morning when The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed that United were in advanced negotiations with Aston Villa over the Belgium international. Shortly afterwards, transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the move with his trademark “Here We Go”, indicating that the deal had been agreed.
According to Romano, United activated the €41 million (£35 million) release clause in Tielemans’ contract, while also reaching a verbal agreement with the 29-year-old midfielder over personal terms.
Tielemans is expected to become Manchester United’s latest summer signing following the arrival of Andrey Santos, with manager Michael Carrick continuing to reshape his midfield ahead of the new season.
Reports indicate the Belgian international will undergo a medical on Tuesday before completing the formalities of his move to Old Trafford. The overall package is expected to be worth between £35 million and £40 million.
United’s pursuit of Tielemans accelerated after the club abandoned plans to sign Ederson from Atalanta.
The Brazilian midfielder had already undergone medical examinations after returning from the FIFA World Cup with Brazil, but United ultimately decided against completing the transfer following additional assessments. Romano confirmed the Premier League club had formally informed Atalanta that the deal would not proceed.
Ederson is now expected to return to Italy, where Atalanta are reportedly preparing to offer him a new contract running until June 2031.
Tielemans arrives at Old Trafford with extensive Premier League experience, having previously starred for Leicester City before joining Aston Villa on a free transfer in 2023. He has also earned around 90 international caps for Belgium and captained his country during the recent World Cup.
The midfielder played a key role in Villa’s successful 2025/26 campaign, helping the club qualify for the UEFA Champions League while also lifting the UEFA Europa League. His departure represents a significant blow for Unai Emery’s side, particularly with long-term injury concerns already affecting their midfield options.
For Manchester United, the signing marks another major step in Carrick’s squad rebuild as the club prepares for a return to Champions League football, with Tielemans expected to add experience, creativity and composure in central midfield.
