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Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of completing a surprising transfer for Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans after triggering the £35 million release clause in his contract. The Red Devils have swiftly moved in the transfer market to strengthen their midfield options under manager Michael Carrick.

United activate Tielemans’ release clause

The Red Devils have stunned the Premier League by taking decisive action to secure the services of Aston Villa’s Belgian playmaker. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have activated the £35 million clause that allows them to bypass direct negotiations with the Birmingham-based club.

Romano confirmed the news with his trademark “here we go,” signalling that the deal is all but done. It represents an astute piece of business from United, who have moved quickly to sign a proven Premier League performer for what is widely viewed as a reasonable fee in the current market.

Villa powerless to keep their star

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery had planned to build his midfield around the trio of Tielemans, Amadou Onana, and Boubacar Kamara for the new season. However, the existence of a release clause in Tielemans’ contract has left the club unable to prevent his switch to a direct league rival.

Manchester United identified the opportunity to bring in the 29-year-old midfielder and, despite reported interest from other clubs, Tielemans is understood to prefer a move to Old Trafford, according to The Athletic. The Belgian international was a key figure for Villa last season, playing a vital role in securing Champions League qualification and lifting the Europa League title. Yet, the appeal of joining the 20-time English champions appears to have been too strong to resist.

Ederson transfer collapses at the last moment

The move for Tielemans follows shortly after United’s decision to withdraw from talks for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. The Brazilian had been United’s top target for several weeks, but the deal fell through in its final stages despite a substantial financial package having been agreed.

Reports indicate that United pulled out of the Ederson deal after requesting additional medical examinations upon the player’s return from the World Cup. While Atalanta were confident in the player’s fitness, United opted to shift their focus elsewhere — which led them directly to Tielemans.

Carrick’s midfield rebuild gains momentum

Following Casemiro’s departure and a long-term knee ligament injury suffered by Manuel Ugarte during the World Cup, Carrick was eager to bring in experienced reinforcements to maintain balance in midfield.

Youri Tielemans, who impressed during Belgium’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals, is expected to join Andrey Santos as part of a reshaped midfield designed to offer greater control and creativity. With his proven ability to contribute goals and assists, United believe Tielemans will serve as the perfect link between defence and attack, helping the team build on their recent improvement under Carrick’s management.