The centre-back joins the Premier League side for a reported £30 million from Villarreal, though the deal is subject to the Ivorian being granted a work permit

Manchester United have signed defender Eric Bailly from Villarreal subject to a work permit, the club have confirmed.

The 24-year-old has penned a four-year deal, with the option for a further two years, and becomes Jose Mourinho’s first signing at Old Trafford.

“It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United,” Bailly told the club’s official website. “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.”

Mourinho added: “Eric is a young central defender with great natural talent. 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.”