Manchester United have officially confirmed the signing of Brazilian sensation Estevão Lima in a blockbuster £110 million deal, with the superstar forward committing his long-term future to the Red Devils until June 2029. The transfer, which has sent shockwaves across the football world, marks one of the most expensive signings in United’s history and highlights the club’s ambition under new sporting leadership.
After months of speculation linking United with several attacking options, the club has now sealed the deal for a player who many believe could become the next global icon. The 22-year-old Brazil international will undergo his medical this morning at Carrington, and a formal presentation at Old Trafford is expected later in the week.
Sources close to the negotiations reveal that the deal includes additional performance-related clauses that could see the fee rise beyond £110 million, depending on appearances, goals, and trophies. The contract also features a release clause north of £150 million, underlining just how highly United rate the young forward.
Fans gathered outside the Manchester Airport in the early hours, hoping to catch a glimpse of their new superstar, who touched down in the city just after dawn. The energy around Old Trafford has been electric since the news broke, with supporters flooding social media to celebrate what they describe as the “arrival of a future Ballon d’Or winner.”
Estevão Lima, formerly of Palmeiras before moving to Europe two seasons ago, has developed rapidly into one of the most feared attackers on the continent. His dribbling flair, blistering pace, and eye for goal have drawn comparisons with Brazilian greats like Ronaldinho and Neymar. Last season, he racked up 26 goals and 14 assists in all competitions, earning a place in the UEFA Team of the Year.
Speaking to a Brazilian outlet just before boarding his flight to Manchester, Estevão expressed his excitement: “This is a dream. Every player dreams of playing at Old Trafford. I’m ready to give my heart to this club and the fans. I want to make history.”
Manchester United’s new sporting director, Jason Wilcox, who played a major role in getting the deal over the line, hailed the signing as a defining moment for the club’s ongoing rebuild: “Estevão represents the kind of player we believe in – young, hungry, technically gifted, and with the mentality to succeed at the very top.”
United manager Erik ten Hag was also visibly thrilled during yesterday’s post-training interview. Without naming the player explicitly before the announcement, Ten Hag dropped a huge hint: “The squad is about to receive a very important addition, someone who can change the game in one moment and bring us closer to competing for top honors.”
The Brazilian international will be joining a Manchester United team looking to reestablish themselves at the top of English football following a turbulent 2024/25 campaign. With the arrival of Estevão, many believe the club has finally found the attacking spark it has lacked since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
While the Premier League is no stranger to high-profile arrivals, this signing feels different. United’s new ownership under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS appears to be delivering on their promise to back Ten Hag with world-class talent. The signing of Estevão is not just a statement to rivals—it’s a warning.
Reports suggest that Estevão could make his debut in the upcoming Community Shield clash against Manchester City, assuming he clears his medical and receives international clearance in time. The prospect of seeing him face off against the reigning champions has fans salivating.
Former Manchester United legends, including Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes, have already chimed in with praise. Ferdinand tweeted, “That’s a statement. United just got a future world-beater. This boy is serious!” Scholes followed up on Instagram, writing, “Can’t wait to see what he brings. We’ve missed this kind of magic for too long.”
In Brazil, his former teammates and coaches have expressed mixed emotions—sadness at losing a generational talent, but pride that he is heading to one of the biggest clubs in the world. Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira said: “He’s a diamond. United got a gem, but more importantly, a humble, hard-working professional.”
The commercial buzz around the deal is also significant. Shirt sales are expected to spike once his squad number is revealed, with rumors suggesting he might be handed the iconic No. 7 shirt—a number worn by legends like George Best, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
This transfer comes as United continue to reshape their squad, with further outgoings and incomings expected in the coming weeks. Names like Mason Greenwood, Donny van de Beek, and Jadon Sancho are being monitored by other European clubs, while the Red Devils are still in talks to reinforce their midfield and defense.
Nevertheless, the capture of Estevão Lima has undoubtedly become the centerpiece of their summer business. Fans will now eagerly await his first training session, first goal, and first time lighting up Old Trafford under the floodlights.
In a club statement released this morning, Manchester United concluded: “We are delighted to welcome Estevão Lima to Manchester United. This marks the beginning of a new chapter, and we’re excited for what’s to come.”
For United fans across the globe, today is a day of celebration. For the Premier League, it’s a wake-up call—Manchester United are back in the market for greatness.