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Manchester United acquire defender Eric Bailly from Villarreal

By Marco D'Onofrio

EIBAR, SPAIN - APRIL 03: Eric Bailly of Villarreal CF reacts during the La Liga match between SD Eibar and Villarreal CF at Ipurua Municipal Stadium on April 3, 2016 in Eibar, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
EIBAR, SPAIN - APRIL 03: Eric Bailly of Villarreal CF reacts during the La Liga match between SD Eibar and Villarreal CF at Ipurua Municipal Stadium on April 3, 2016 in Eibar, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) /
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Manchester United have officially signed defender Eric Bailly from Villareal for a fee of €40 million.

Jose Mourinho hasn’t been at Old Trafford for more than a couple of weeks now, but he has already overseen his first major transfer at Manchester United. The Red Devils confirmed on Wednesday that they have completed the acquisition of defender Eric Bailly for a whopping €40 million.

“It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United,” the 22-year-old told the club’s website. To play football at the highest level is all I have ever wanted to do.”

The youngster had become one of the most highly sought after defenders on the continent after an impressive season with Villarreal. After making just 10 appearances the year prior, Bailly became a key element in Macelino’s squad this past season.

Manchester United are already reaping the benefits of having a coach as highly regarded as Mourinho, with the defender explaining how important the Portuguese tactician was in his decision to join the club.

“I want to progress to be the best that I can be and I believe working with Jose Mourinho will help me develop in the right way and at the right club. I am looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and to starting this new chapter of my life.”

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The Premier League giants are coming off a disappointing season under Louis van Gaal, failing to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Getting back into Europe’s most prestigious club competition will be Mourinho’s first objective with his new club, and Bailly will certainly help shore up a shaky defense.

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