Manchester United have completed the signing of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, making him the club's third first-team addition in the space of a week. The Belgian midfielder joins Andrey Santos and goalkeeper Karl Darlow as Michael Carrick's midfield rebuild takes shape.
Tielemans picks iconic No. 18 shirt
Tielemans has been handed the No. 18 shirt, famously worn by Paul Scholes, as well as Ashley Young and Bruno Fernandes in his early United days. Casemiro was the most recent player to wear it. Speaking after the announcement, 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."
He added: "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."
Rashford's Barcelona return hopes fade
Marcus Rashford, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona, remains in limbo after the Catalan club opted not to trigger his £26million buyout clause. Reports from Spain indicate that Ferran Torres' future at Barcelona won't be resolved until September, further complicating any potential move for Rashford.
Barcelona have already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for £70m and are poised to bring in Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, both of whom occupy Rashford's position. According to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Torres could sign a new contract in September due to FFP concerns, meaning Rashford may have no destination if Torres stays, or if he leaves after September, by which time the Englishman's fate will likely be sealed.
