Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Villarreal defender Eric Bailly, as he becomes the club's first signing under new manager Jose Mourinho.
Bailly has signed a four-year deal with the club, with the opportunity of extending it a further two season. The transfer is subject to the granting of a work permit.
Only 22-years-old, Bailly has already won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015 with his native Ivory Coast. He has played 15 times for his country, with his debut coming weeks before the tournament.
Say hello to our new signing, @EricBailly24! #BaillyIsRed https://t.co/uCNv5rqG7p
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 8, 2016
The centre-back has spent the duration of his professional career in Spain. A product of the Espanyol youth system, he graduated to the senior team before moving to Villarreal in January 2015.
"It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United", Bailly told Manchester United's website. "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."
Mourinho was also delighted to make his first signing as Manchester United manager, stating that "Eric is a young central defender with great natural talent. He has progressed well to date and has the potential to become one of the best around."
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