Manchester United have officially completed the stunning signing of Donny van de Beek from Ajax on a five-year deal.

The 23-year-old Dutch midfielder was heavily linked with Real Madrid in January, but the Red Devils became the clear favourites to land the former Ajax star in recent weeks.

And Van de Beek has now become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first major signing in the window as the United boss strengthens his midfield options.

United reportedly splashed out £35m to land the Netherlands international, who made 175 first-team appearances for Ajax during his five years with the Dutch club.

According to reports, Ajax could pocket an additional £5m through various add-ons inserted into the Van de Beek deal.

Van de Beek told United’s official website: “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.”

Van de Beek won a Dutch league title and the KNVB Cup during the 2018-19 season, along with reaching the Champions League semi-finals in Ajax’s remarkable campaign.

Solskjaer, who is reportedly keen to add a defender and forward option to his squad, says the ex-Ajax star has the “personality required to succeed at Manchester United.”

The United boss explained: “Donny has all of the technical attributes needed to perform in this team and has the personality required to succeed at Manchester United.

“His ability to see space, time his movements and read the game will really complement the qualities that we have in midfield and his arrival really strengthens the depth of talent we have in that position.

“Donny’s performances in the Eredivisie and in Europe have been excellent over the last few years and we are all looking forward to working with him.”

source:- fcnaija