Manchester United have finally splashed the big bucks to confirm the signing of Angel Di Maria from Real Madrid for a British record transfer fee of £59.7 million.
The 26-year-old Argentine, who will reportedly be earning a salary of £200,000-per-week, has penned a five-year deal after successfully completing a medical at old Trafford.
"Manchester United is delighted to announce that Angel Di Maria has completed his transfer for a British record fee of £59.7million. Angel joins on a five-year contract," read a statement in the club's official website.
Di Maria, who has now become the most expensive signing in England, eclipsing Fernando Torres' £50 million move from Liverpool to Chelsea in January 2011, expressed his delight at having completed the switch, insisting that United was the only club he was interested in.
BREAKING: Angel Di Maria has completed his move to #mufc for a British record fee of £59.7m. #WelcomeDiMaria pic.twitter.com/ySiDmJM0gD
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 26, 2014
"I am absolutely delighted to be joining Manchester United. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Spain and there were a lot of clubs interested in me, but United is the only club that I would have left Real Madrid for," the Argentine told the club's official website.
The former Benfica man says that he is excited to work under Louis van Gaal, who he feels is a "fantastic coach"
"Louis van Gaal is a fantastic coach with a proven track record of success and I am impressed by the vision and determination everyone has to get this club back to the top - where it belongs. I now just cannot wait to get started," he added.
Van Gaal also expressed his delight at having secured Di Maria's signature, saying that the "world-class midfielder" will be an excellent addition to the squad.
"Angel is a world-class midfielder but most importantly he is a team player," said the Dutchman. There is no doubting his immense natural talent.
"He is a tremendously fast and incisive left-footed player who puts fear into the most accomplished defence. His dribbling skills and his ability to take on and beat opponents are a joy to watch. He is an excellent addition to the team."
United will be hoping to get Di Maria's work permit as soon as possible so that the Argentina international can make his debut during the Red Devils' Premier League clash against Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday.
