Manchester United confirm signing of Donny van de Beek from Ajax

De Beek becomes United's first signing of the summer.
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Manchester United have completed the signing of Donny Van de Beek.

The Netherlands international has become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first signing of the summer in a deal worth €39m (£36.4m) plus €5m in add-ons.

He signs a five-year deal at Old Trafford with the option of a further year.

Van de Beek said: “I cannot begin to explain how incredible an opportunity it is to join a club with such an amazing history.

“I would like to thank everyone at Ajax. I grew up there and I will always have a special bond with the club.

“I am now ready to take the next step in my career and perform at the highest level and there is no higher standard than Manchester United.

“Everyone has told me how amazing the Old Trafford atmosphere is and I am looking forward to experiencing that, once it is safe for the fans to return.

“This team has some of the best midfielders in the world and I know that I can learn from them and also bring my own strengths to the group.

“Having spoken to the manager about his vision for this team, the direction that the club is going in is hugely exciting and I cannot wait to be a part of that.”

The Ajax midfielder had been on Real Madrid’s radar before United stepped up their pursuit over the weekend.

Van de Beek is seen as an ideal fit for Solskjaer’s Old Trafford rebuild.

Aged 23, with significant Champions League experience, his relatively low price tag in what is proving a difficult market, all add to his appeal.

Solskjaer wants to bolster his developing squad with proven quality this summer after guiding United to third place and a return to the Champions League.

He has told Ed Woodward he needs strength in depth to compete domestically and in Europe next season.

Van de Beek brings goals and creativity to a midfield that has become heavily-reliant on Bruno Fernandes since his January arrival.

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