Manchester United complete $50 million deal for Ander Herrera

Sometimes long-term pursuits pay off.

That’s the case in Manchester United’s chase of Ander Herrera, as the talented Spanish midfielder has finally signed for the Red Devils.

After coming so close to signing with the Old Trafford club in August, Herrera has signed a four-year deal with United for a fee believed to be around $50 million. The diminutive Spaniard will be a key cog in the team assembled by new United manager Louis van Gaal for the upcoming season and beyond.

[RELATED: More on Herrera’s signing from Soccerly ]

Speaking to United’s official website, Herrera is delighted to have joined the Premier League’s most successful side and help them on their quest to return to the top.

“Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far. I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the club’s objectives. Having arrived on Tuesday, I’m excited to now be living in Manchester and I can’t wait for my first game in United’s famous red shirt.”

A player of Herrera’s quality was badly needed in the engine room last season, as United had their worst-ever PL campaign in 2013-14 by finishing seventh. Too often they were outfought in the midfield and Herrera’s poise and skill on the ball will keep things ticking over. Former manager David Moyes, who was fired back in April during his debut season in charge, put in all the ground work for this transfer. Hats off to Moyesy.

At the age of 24 and already having over 100 appearances in La Liga under his belt, Herrera’s shown plenty of promise in Spain’s top-flight and is set to be a star of the Spanish national team.

United have finally got their man.

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