Ander Herrera has paid compensation to Athletic Bilbao to buy himself out of his contract and has signed for Manchester United.
United said he was joining on a four-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.
The United assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: “Ander is a fantastic young player, with great energy and creativity. We believe him to be one of the brightest young prospects in Spain and I am certain he will be a big hit with the United fans.
“I’m delighted he has made the decision to come to Manchester and play his part in the club’s future. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action on our summer tour to America.”
Herrera told the United website: “Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic in the Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career. 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. I will never forget my time with Athletic and I’d like to thank the fans and staff for all their support and, above all, wish all my fantastic former team-mates all the best for the future.”
Earlier in the day Bilbao said they had rejected a €36m (£28.85m) bid for Herrera from United but the way was cleared for the move to go ahead.
Athletic Bilbao said in a statement on their website: “The Football League has certified Athletic Club that player Ander Herrera has fulfilled the requirements of the applicable regulations valid for unilateral termination of the employment contract that bound him to our club, by depositing today the amount of compensation established in the contract.
“The Athletic Club thanks Ander Herrera for his dedication during the three seasons he has enjoyed the club and wishes him the best in his future sports projects.”
Herrera would become the first new signing United have made since they confirmed Louis van Gaal as the permanent successor to David Moyes, who was sacked in April.
Moyes’s attempts to secure Herrera’s services last summer descended into farce on transfer deadline day.
