Besiktas sign defender Eric Bailly from Manchester United

Besiktas confirm the signing of Ivory Coast international Eric Bailly from Manchester United.

Besiktas have completed the signing of Eric Bailly from Manchester United.

The centre-back returned to Old Trafford earlier this summer after spending the 2022-23 season on loan with Ligue 1 side Marseille.

Bailly has been looking for a new club during the summer months after being deemed surplus to requirements by Erik Ten Hag.

The Man United boss favours Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as his preferred central defensive pairing, while Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans provide Ten Hag with further options.

The Ivory Coast international was linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, before talks reportedly broke down with Al-Nassr.

Fulham were also touted as a potential destination, but Bailly ultimately failed to find a new club before the English transfer window closed on Friday.

However, with the Turkish transfer window open until September 7, Bailly has still managed to complete a move away from Old Trafford.

Besiktas have announced the signing of Bailly after reaching an agreement with Man United over a permanent transfer.

Bailly has joined the Turkish Super Lig club on a short-term deal, having put pen to paper on a contract that runs until June 2024.

© Reuters

The 29-year-old, who joined Man United from Villarreal in 2016, will leave the Red Devils after making 113 appearances across all competitions.

Bailly has become the second player to leave Man United for Turkey this summer after Fred completed a move to Fenerbahce.

Besiktas have made several additions to their squad over the summer, including Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ante Rebic, Daniel Amartey and Arthur Masuaku.

Bailly could potentially make his debut on September 16 when Besiktas face Trabzonspor, just days before they begin the Europa Conference League group stage against Club Brugge.

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