According to Fabrizio Romano, Eric Bailly has left Manchester United and completed a permanent transfer to Besiktas, marking the end of his seven-year tenure at Old Trafford.
The 29-year-old left United after arriving from Villarreal in 2016, a signing made by Jose Mourinho with the expectation of providing a long-term defensive solution for the club.
Despite achieving success in the Europa League and EFL Cup during Mourinho’s tenure, injuries have plagued his time at United, and his most recent appearance was in a 3-1 victory against Burnley in December 2021.
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Bailly spent the previous season on loan at Marseille, and now he is moving to the Turkish Super Lig. Interestingly, another former United player, Fred, has also made a transfer to Turkey this summer, joining Fenerbahce.
Under Erik ten Hag’s management, Bailly hasn’t been included in the plans, and he was considered surplus to requirements last summer.
Eric Bailly to Besiktas, here we go! Deal agreed tonight with Ivorian CB — there’s also green light from Manchester United for Bailly to leave 🚨⚪️⚫️ #Besiktas
Understand it’s permanent transfer and Bailly will sign short term deal. One year contract, free in June 2024. pic.twitter.com/Un11Sr1Qea
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 4, 2023
With the arrival of Jonny Evans on a free transfer, the Ivory Coast international effectively became the seventh choice for the centre-back position.
He follows the departures of Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe, who left the club in July when their contracts ended. Teden Mengi has also departed, joining Luton Town on a permanent transfer last week.
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Although the English summer transfer window closed last Friday, United can still conduct business with Turkish and Saudi Arabian clubs, as their respective transfer windows close on September 7 and September 15.
Having offloaded Bailly, United are still looking to part ways with Donny van de Beek, as the former Ajax star does not feature in the manager’s plans.
It appears that the Netherlands international turned down an opportunity to join Lorient in Ligue 1. Galatasaray had also been in discussions for a loan deal for the 26-year-old.
