THOUGH IT SEEMED to stall over the weekend due to Blackburn’s valuation, Manchester United today completed the signing of defender Phil Jones.
The England U-21 man will move to Old Trafford for around £17million.
Jones completed a medical at the Premier League champions last week before a hitch delayed the transfer. Both Arsenal and Liverpool made late bids but the 19-year-old said he only wanted a move to United.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and I’m looking forward to a new challenge,” Jones said on Twitter.
A club statement published today reads as follows: “Manchester United is delighted to announce it has signed an agreement with Blackburn Rovers for the transfer of Phil Jones.
“The player passed a medical in Manchester last week and has agreed a five-year contract. The deal will be completed once the player returns from international duty.”
Striker Wayne Rooney said: “Welcome to Man Utd Phil Jones. Looking forward to playing with u,” while the man he’ll probably replace, Rio Ferdinand, wrote: “Welcome to Phil Jones. Another top young talent joining the club. The future is bright.”
Jones played in the draw with Spain at the European U-21 Championships last night – in goal for the victors was another Ferguson target David de Gea. Ashley Young is likely to complete a move from Villa Park while it emerged earlier that Federico Macheda will not be leaving the club.
