Man Utd fill midfield gap with Tielemans as Villa apology follows

Manchester United have moved to plug a midfield void after recent activity, signing Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa last month for a £35 million fee. The acquisition follows United's earlier deal for Andrey Santos and comes as the club seeks greater depth ahead of the new season.

Midfield reinforcement after Santos signing

After wrapping up a deal with Chelsea for Andrey Santos, United further strengthened their midfield by triggering a £35 million release clause in Tielemans’ contract at Villa Park. The club announced the signing alongside a (Picture: Getty) statement, confirming the financial details and the player's arrival.

Past performance, Europa League success and apology

Tielemans enjoyed three years with the Villains after joining the Club from Leicester City in 2023, racking up ten goals and 25 assists in 134 appearances across all competitions. He helped Unai Emery’s side capture the Europa League trophy – the first European title for Aston Villa in 44 years. Following a remark that Manchester United were a level ‘above’ his former team, the Belgian issued a heartfelt apology on social media, writing, “Never meant for my words in the press yesterday to offend anyone or undermine the institution of Aston Villa Football Club which I massively respect.”

Manchester United warned hiring Conte could repeat swift Chelsea collapse

The 29‑year‑old made his unofficial United debut last weekend as Michael Carrick’s men drew 1‑1 with European champions Paris Saint‑Germain in Gothenburg. He featured again versus Leeds on Wednesday night at Dublin’s Croke Park, coming on with half an hour remaining and converting his penalty as United won the shoot‑out 5‑4.

In his second United appearance, Tielemans scored in the shoot‑out and finished the match on a high, making no mistake from the spot. His contributions have already provided United with a reliable option in the final third of games.

Tielemans also took the opportunity to send his best wishes to his former club, who begin their Premier League campaign away to Brighton in just over a week’s time. “Wishing the club the best in the future. Youri,” he added, underscoring his continued respect for Aston Villa.