Manchester United have announced the signing of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, completing their third summer acquisition. The 29-year-old Belgium international joins for £35 million after United activated a release clause in his contract at Villa Park. Tielemans has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, keeping him at the club until 2031.
Tielemans Shirt Number and Squad Role
Tielemans has been assigned the No18 shirt, previously worn by Casemiro, who left United upon the expiry of his contract earlier this summer and is set to join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Other notable former holders of the No18 at United include Bruno Fernandes—who switched to his preferred No8—as well as Ashley Young and Paul Scholes. Tielemans previously wore No8 at Leicester City and Aston Villa in the Premier League.
The midfielder will compete for a place in the double pivot of Michael Carrick's 4-2-3-1 formation alongside Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and fellow new signing Andrey Santos. Tielemans becomes United's third summer signing after Santos and goalkeeper Karl Darlow.
Recent Achievements and Statistics
Tielemans joins United after winning the Europa League with Aston Villa last season. He made 34 appearances in all competitions under Unai Emery, scoring twice—including a goal in the 3-0 final victory over Freiburg. In the 2023-24 season, he missed just two league games for Villa, contributing three goals and seven assists.
According to club sources, Tielemans expressed excitement about joining Manchester United and working under Carrick, saying, "I'm delighted to be here. Manchester United is a massive club, and I can't wait to get started."
