Man Utd in advanced talks to sign shock player from Premier League club

Manchester United are reportedly in advanced talks to sign a shock Premier League midfielder, and it’s not who you’d expect.

After missing out on both Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes in recent weeks, United had been heavily linked with Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos.

On July 8, it was reported that the clubs had come to an agreement over a £50 million deal for the Brazilian, expected to be made up of an initial £48 million fee with £2 million in add-ons. Chelsea also hold a 10 per cent sell-on fee.

Santos has already had a medical. However, United’s pursuit of a midfielder appears to be continuing, with The Athletic’s David Ornstein reporting on Monday (July 13) that the club are in advanced talks to sign Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans.

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The 29-year-old Belgium international, who featured during the nation’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals while captaining the side, is under contract until 2028, having played an integral role in the Villains’ Europa League success, but favours a move to United amid interest from other Premier League clubs.

"Contact is ongoing between all parties to finalise the transfer, which comes as something of a surprise but would add much-needed quality and experience to an area of the field United have been prioritising this summer," Ornstein wrote.

He added: "Villa have no desire to sell Tielemans but his contract includes a release clause in region of £35million, so they may have little choice."

Tielemans has represented both Leicester City and Aston Villa in the Premier League, producing two goals and seven assists for the latter as they qualified for the Champions League last term.

According to Capology, Tielemans earns £150,000 per week, making him Villa's joint-highest earner alongside Boubacar Kamara.

The Belgian was previously linked with United during José Mourinho's tenure back in 2016, although he denied ever being contacted by the 20-time English champions.

"I have never been in contact with José Mourinho," he said at the time.

"Whoever maintains the opposite is lying.

"I have deep respect for Mr Mourinho and for numerous other managers, but he has never contacted me. I'm concentrating on my career..."

Man Utd abandon Ederson transfer

United have also reportedly decided against signing Atalanta midfielder Ederson, despite the clubs agreeing a £35 million plus add-ons deal last month.

The Brazilian, who received a late call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad, had agreed personal terms and was expected to undergo a medical once he returned from the tournament.

Ornstein also explained that United may revisit the situation later in the transfer window, which closes on September 1.