Manchester United has signed Spanish midfielder Ander Herrera from Athletic Bilbao on a four year contract, subject to receipt of International Transfer Certificate.
The Manchester giant has finally sealed a deal for the 24-year-old Spaniard, who was high on their most wanted list since last summer. A £24M bid had previously been made for the player in August 2013, which Bilbao opted to reject.
The sale of Herrera, who had played for the Spanish outfit since 2011, was subject to a buy-out clause in his contract which was activated by the Red Devils, and the club made their formal announcement this afternoon.
A statement from the player on Man United’s official website says:
“Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far.
“I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the club’s objectives. Having arrived on Tuesday, I’m excited to now be living in Manchester and I can’t wait for my first game in United’s famous red shirt.
“I will never forget my time with Athletic Club and I’d like to thank the fans and staff for all their support and, above all, wish all my fantastic former team-mates all the best for the future.”