Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of finalising a deal to bring Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans to Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have secured a return to the UEFA Champions League after a two-year absence and are now focused on strengthening their squad to cope with the demands of top-level European football.

Veteran midfielder Casemiro departed at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract, leaving a significant gap in midfield. Head coach Michael Carrick has made finding a replacement his top priority this summer.

Casemiro featured in 35 matches for United last season, contributing several crucial goals that helped the club secure their Champions League qualification. However, with the return of European competition and a tighter schedule ahead, the management recognises the need for added depth and quality in the squad.

The first major reinforcement seems to be arriving in the form of Tielemans. The Belgian international, who captained his national side during the 2026 World Cup, played a pivotal role in Aston Villa’s campaign last season. He helped Villa finish just behind Manchester United in fourth place and was instrumental in their Europa League triumph.

According to respected transfer journalist David Ornstein, Manchester United have opened formal discussions with the 29-year-old midfielder, who is enthusiastic about joining the club. The move is expected to be straightforward, with United ready to activate Tielemans' £35 million release clause.

Tielemans’ signing would follow the recent acquisition of Brazilian talent Andrey Santos from Chelsea, whose transfer to the north-west of England was agreed last week.

Despite dealing with a few injury setbacks last season, Tielemans still made a major impact, notably scoring Aston Villa’s opening goal in their 3-0 victory in the Europa League final with a superbly executed volley from a set-piece routine.

In FourFourTwo’s assessment, this transfer represents a positive outcome for all involved. Manchester United would gain an experienced and technically gifted midfielder, while Aston Villa could benefit financially by cashing in on a valuable asset to alleviate budgetary pressures.

Transfermarkt currently estimates Tielemans’ market value at €30 million. Should the move be completed soon, he is expected to join Manchester United’s pre-season preparations later in the summer, with potential friendlies against Atletico Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in August marking his early appearances for the club.