Manchester United have announced the signing of Donny van de Beek in a £40 million deal from Ajax.The 23-year-old midfielder becomes the Red Devils’ first signing of the summer, agreeing a five-year contract at Old Trafford.“I cannot begin to explain how incredible an opportunity it is to join a club with such an amazing history,” Van de Beek said, per United’s website.“I would like to thank everyone at Ajax. I grew up there and I will always have a special bond with the club.“I am now ready to take the next step in my career and perform at the highest level and there is no higher standard than Manchester United.”
The Netherlands international will forever be remembered at Ajax, where he came through the youth system and played a major role in the club’s run to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2019.
And the club shared a brilliant tribute video to say farewell to the midfielder on social media.
Van de Beek farewell video
The video features clips of Van de Beek’s time at Ajax, with the midfielder speaking to his dad on the phone in the voiceover.
“You were there for my debut. My first goal. You were there for me when they sang my name,” Van de Beek says.
“Now, it’s time. Time for the next step. Time for a new dream.”
It’s a quality piece of work. Check it out below.
The video racked up more than 5,000 retweets within 20 minutes of going live.
It's just the level of class you'd expect from Ajax.
Van de Beek admitted he "cannot wait" to be a part of the Man United setup under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
“Everyone has told me how amazing the Old Trafford atmosphere is and I am looking forward to experiencing that, once it is safe for the fans to return," he added.
“This team has some of the best midfielders in the world and I know that I can learn from them and also bring my own strengths to the group.
“Having spoken to the manager about his vision for this team, the direction that the club is going in is hugely exciting and I cannot wait to be a part of that.”