In a transfer storm that's left Premier League rivals scrambling, Manchester United have pulled off a masterstroke by completing the £48m signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea. But they're not stopping there – their sights are firmly set on another high-profile target: Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans. Sources close to the deal confirm that the Red Devils will activate his release clause, paving the way for a move worth approximately £35m.
This blockbuster signing is a hammer blow for Unai Emery and Aston Villa, who'll be rubbing their hands together in anticipation of a tidy profit on a player they picked up on a free transfer just three years ago. Tielemans' arrival would inject some much-needed steel into Michael Carrick's midfield, but it would also leave a gaping hole at Villa Park – particularly with Amadou Onana out for the count after his devastating cruciate ligament injury during Belgium's World Cup quarter-final run.
United had been linked with Atalanta's Ederson in recent days, but that pursuit has hit a speed bump. The Brazil international was initially set to join the Reds at £35m, only for a medical in the United States to throw up some worrying signs. A second full medical this week – following Brazil's exit from the World Cup – has prompted United to re-evaluate the transfer, but they haven't ruled out revisiting the deal down the line.
Andrey Santos, meanwhile, is already settling into his new life at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder has signed a five-year contract and can't wait to get stuck in. "Everything about Manchester United is special – it's an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented," he gushed. He's also thrilled to be learning from Michael Carrick, who he believes will help him take his career to the next level.
United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, was effusive in his praise for Santos, highlighting his "excellent technical qualities" and ability to make a difference at both ends of the pitch. He also acknowledged that, despite being an experienced player with leadership credentials, Santos still has "enormous potential" – something United are eager to unlock. Meanwhile, Aston Villa are reportedly closing in on Switzerland's Johan Manzambi, who had been linked with Newcastle United.