Youri Tielemans transfer clause Man Utd used kept secret from Aston Villa staff

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The release clause that saw Manchester United prise Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa was not widely known. Even a key figure involved in brokering the deal that saw Villa sign Tielemans was unaware of its existence, according to The Athletic .

Manchester United agreed a £35million transfer for the Belgian midfielder, which sees a substantial profit for the Midlands club who signed him on a free transfer. Tielemans has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at Old Trafford and brings Premier League experience to the Red Devils, with the midfielder having made 244 appearances in the competition.

The former Leicester star comes on board as part of United's midfield overhaul alongside Andrey Santos from Chelsea . The Belgium skipper completed the switch swiftly, as the club pulled out of a proposed deal for Atalanta's Ederson.

Despite his eagerness to make the switch to United, Tielemans was determined that negotiations were conducted above board. After being made aware of their interest, the 29-year-old was reported to be insistent on speaking with manager Unai Emery before entering into any discussions.

Tielemans has been touted as a United target on several previous occasions, but only now have the circumstances aligned to make a move possible. Even at this stage, Villa were keen to keep him at the club, yet for the player himself, the decision was straightforward.

Following the completion of the deal, 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."

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United's director of football Jason Wilcox added: "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."

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