Manchester United have announced the signing of Villarreal defender Eric Bailly, subject to a work permit according to various reports.
It’s official! We’ve signed @EricBailly24, subject to a work permit. More: https://t.co/wXgHSqmMju #BaillyIsRed pic.twitter.com/7yyga3XaOi
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 8, 2016
The Ivory Coast international becomes the first arrival of the Jose Mourinho era as Manchester United Manager.
According to BBC, the 22-year-old Ivory Coast international joins for about £30m on a four-year deal.
He joined Villarreal for £4.4m in January 2015 and was an influential player in helping Ivory Coast win the Africa Cup of Nations.
The defender was a main stay in the Villarreal team that achieved Champions League qualification last season.
Bailly said: “It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United. To play football at the highest level is all I have ever wanted to do.”
Read more quotes from our new signing: https://t.co/wXgHSqmMju #BaillyIsRed pic.twitter.com/gbz5cVExOD
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 8, 2016
United manager Jose Mourinho said: “Eric has the potential to become one of the best around.”
Bailly made 47 appearances for Villarreal in La Liga since joining on 29 January 2015.
Five fast facts on @EricBailly24… #BaillyIsRed https://t.co/HD1WEdSRGw
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 8, 2016