Man Utd remained disciplined in transfer approach

[Getty Images] Youri Tielemans' arrival at Old Trafford has been a bit of a slow burner - and another example of Manchester United's increased use of data around transfers. Tielemans could have joined United when he left Monaco in 2019. He could also have moved when his contract ran out at Leicester City in 2023. On both occasions, United backed away - this time, they have not. United repeatedly stressed they were prioritising the midfield areas this summer. It was also obvious they had multiple targets. When Mateus Fernandes' planned move from West Ham fell through, Old Trafford officials continued to insist they were relaxed about the situation, even as fans started pressing the panic button. The make-up of their midfield has always been seen as fluid. Had Elliot Anderson come in, funds for additional players would have been stretched. That was also why United would not keep increasing their bid for Fernandes. They were determined to remain disciplined in their approach to the market and felt enough alternatives had been identified to fit their template not to stress. Instead of Fernandes' youth, they have Andrey Santos. Instead of Ederson's experience, they have Tielemans'. It is possible he is slightly older than the initial targets but that minus is made up for by the significant pluses of Premier League experience and, if his signing announcement statement is to be taken at face value, a desire to play for Manchester United. These have both been viewed as key components for any signing, beyond the actual ability. It has been a busy couple of days in terms of transfer announcements at Old Trafford. The key element is what happens now. Tielemans is more of a number eight, someone to compete with Kobbie Mainoo. Santos is a six. At least one more midfielder is expected, a player with experience, capable of having an impact in the Champions League and who is likely to occupy a deeper role. Read more about Tielemans' arrival at United here