HERE WE GO 🔥
DONE DEAL ✅️: Manchester United Complete the Deal to Sign a Very Aggressive Striker Who Has Been Highly Regarded as the Defender’s Nightmare — He’ll Be Given the No.7 Shirt
Manchester — June 13, 2025
Manchester United have made a bold and emphatic statement in the transfer market, officially confirming the signing of one of the most aggressive and electrifying forwards in European football. The Premier League giants have completed the transfer of Santiago Velásquez, a 24-year-old Uruguayan striker who has been dubbed the “defender’s nightmare” across Europe for his relentless physicality, ruthless finishing, and unyielding attacking mindset.
The club announced today that Velásquez will wear the iconic No.7 shirt, a number that carries immense history and weight at Old Trafford. It’s a move that not only reinforces United’s frontline but symbolizes a deeper ambition: to return to the peak of English and European football with fearless, fire-powered talent leading the charge.
Who Is Santiago Velásquez?
Santiago Velásquez may not yet be a household name globally, but those who follow South American and Spanish football know his reputation all too well. Having scored 31 goals and registered 12 assists last season for Atlético Bilbao in La Liga, Velásquez built a reputation as one of the most aggressive and hard-hitting forwards on the continent. He terrorized defenses with his strength, pace, and refusal to be bullied off the ball.
Standing at 6’1″, with a muscular frame and the heart of a warrior, Velásquez is not the kind of striker who waits for the ball to come to him — he goes to war for it. He thrives on chaos in the box, presses defenders relentlessly, and celebrates tackles as passionately as goals.
Described by former Uruguayan international Diego Forlán as “a forward born for Old Trafford,” Velásquez possesses the type of intensity and charisma that has been missing in Manchester United’s forward line since the departure of a certain Cristiano Ronaldo.
The No.7 Shirt — Legacy and Pressure
In giving Velásquez the No.7 jersey, Manchester United are handing him not just a number, but a legacy. From George Best to Eric Cantona, from David Beckham to Cristiano Ronaldo — the No.7 is more than a shirt; it’s a symbol of leadership, swagger, and superstar status.
In recent years, however, the shirt has weighed heavily on those who wore it. The likes of Ángel Di María, Memphis Depay, and Alexis Sánchez all failed to live up to the expectations that come with it. But insiders at United believe Velásquez is different — not just for his physical gifts, but for his mentality.
In his first club interview, Velásquez said:
> “I’m not afraid of pressure. Pressure is what makes diamonds. I know what the No.7 means. I’ll wear it with pride and fury.”
Fans have responded with excitement and cautious optimism. For them, it’s time the shirt regained its reputation. With Velásquez’s arrival, the buzz is back.
The Transfer Details
Manchester United signed Velásquez in a deal worth £68 million, potentially rising to £80 million with add-ons. The transfer came after weeks of negotiations with Atlético Bilbao, who were reluctant to let their star man go but ultimately relented after the player made it clear that his heart was set on Old Trafford.
Velásquez has signed a five-year contract with an option to extend for a sixth year. His salary will place him among the club’s top earners, but still within the new wage structure introduced under United’s modern recruitment strategy.
According to sources, Velásquez turned down interest from Bayern Munich and Chelsea, both of whom were prepared to match United’s financial offer, but were unable to match the allure of the No.7 shirt, the chance to lead a historic revival, and the passion of United’s global fanbase.
Amorim’s First-Choice Target
New United manager Rúben Amorim reportedly identified Velásquez as his top target upon arriving at the club earlier this summer. Amorim’s system depends on a striker who not only scores goals but applies pressure from the front, links up with midfielders, and leads by example.
Velásquez fits that mold perfectly. His relentless work rate, combined with a killer instinct in the box, makes him ideal for Amorim’s aggressive high-pressing setup.
Amorim was personally involved in the recruitment process and spoke directly with Velásquez during the final stages of the deal.
> “Santiago is not just a player — he’s a fighter, a leader, and a symbol of what we’re building here,” Amorim said. “He’s exactly what Manchester United need right now.”
The Rasmus Højlund Conundrum
While fans celebrate Velásquez’s arrival, the move raises questions about the future of Rasmus Højlund, who was signed from Atalanta for £72 million just two summers ago.
Højlund, who showed flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency, now faces direct competition for the central striker role. With Amorim favoring a single-striker system, both cannot start together regularly unless the formation adapts.
Reports suggest Højlund is unsettled by the signing and is seeking assurances over his role moving forward. United, however, are believed to be open to healthy competition and want both players pushing each other to higher levels.
Fan Reaction: Buzzing at Old Trafford
The United fanbase has exploded with excitement. The club’s official announcement video featuring Velásquez walking into Old Trafford, placing the No.7 jersey over his shoulders, and whispering “Let’s bring fear back to the box” has racked up over 12 million views in under 12 hours.
Some fan reactions on social media:
> “This guy looks like he eats defenders for breakfast. Absolutely what we’ve been missing!”
> “We finally have a No.7 with fire again. Velásquez looks like he’s made for war.”
> “Tenacity, power, aggression, goals — welcome to the Theatre of Dreams.”
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
Velásquez will join the squad for pre-season in early July and is expected to feature prominently during the club’s tour of the United States. His debut is anticipated in the friendly against Real Madrid in Las Vegas — a perfect stage to showcase his intensity to the world.
More importantly, Velásquez’s signing signals a new era at United — one where players are chosen not just for names or commercial value, but for fit, hunger, and mentality.
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Final Thoughts
Manchester United haven’t just signed a striker. They’ve signed a statement. Santiago Velásquez isn’t here to blend in — he’s here to lead a revolution. With the No.7 shirt on his back and fire in his eyes, he’s coming for every defender in the Premier League.
Defenders beware — Manchester United’s new nightmare has arrived. 🔥🔴⚽
Stay tuned
for full coverage of Velásquez’s medical, unveiling, and exclusive interviews in the coming days.
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