Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes new centre-back Eric Bailly has the potential to be one of the best in the business.
The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international, who subject to a work permit has signed a four-year contract with the option of a two-year extension, is the Portuguese’s first signing since taking over from Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford this summer.
Mourinho has high hopes for the defender, who could reportedly cost United up to £30 million (Dh159.9m).
“Eric is a young central defender with great natural talent,” he said. “He has progressed well to date and has the potential to become one of the best around. “We look forward to working with him to help nurture that raw talent and fulfil his potential.
“Eric is at the right club to continue his development.”
Bailly made 47 appearances in the 16 months he was with Villarreal after joining from Espanyol in January last year. He has also won 15 caps for the Ivory Coast and was part of the 2015 African Nations Cup-winning side.
“It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United,” he said. “To play football at the highest level is all I have ever wanted to do.
“I want to progress to be the best that I can be and I believe working with Jose Mourinho will help me develop in the right way and at the right club.
“I am looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and to starting this new chapter of my life.”
Meanwhile, Mourinho seems to be revelling in his new role as United manager.
The Portuguese was announced as Louis van Gaal’s replacement on May 27 and after confirming Bailly as his first signing, he then posted a photograph of his desk on his official Instagram account, with the caption “now is the time to enjoy – produce pre-season training sessions”.
On the photo was a red folder with ‘Tour 2016’ on it – Mourinho’s dossier for the forthcoming tour of China – while there also appeared to be a pencil case with Mourinho’s face on, along with the club crest.
Also laid out are a number of notepads and spreadsheets – presumably detailing the schedules Mourinho is building for his new players as he looks to return them to Premier League title contention.