Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.

 

Jason Wilcox, United’s director of football, is in advanced talks with Villa regarding a financial package for Tielemans. The 29-year-old, who was part of Belgium’s World Cup squad, is thought to have a £35m release clause in his contract, which has two years remaining.

 

 

Tielemans has spent three years at Villa Park and was a key part of the team which won the Europa League last season. He also impressed for Belgium at the World Cup, scoring twice in the dramatic 3-2 win over Senegal in the round of 32.

 

With Casemiro having departed United at the end of last season and Manuel Ugarte considered a squad player at best, Michael Carrick is seeking to overhaul his midfield department.

 

Tielemans is set to join Andrey Santos as part of United’s summer midfield revamp. A £50m ($67m) deal has been agreed with Chelsea, with the two clubs going through the formalities before announcing the transfer. Goalkeeper Karl Darlow is also close to joining from Leeds United to provide competition for No. 1 Senne Lammens.