Former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel, has described Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans as Manchester United’s best signing of the summer transfer window.

Mikel made the remarks on The Obi One Podcast, expressing surprise that the Premier League giants secured the midfielder for just £35 million.

“For me, it’s Youri Tielemans. Honestly, how on earth did Manchester United sign him for £35 million? That is an absolute bargain,” Mikel said.

The former Chelsea star said he had watched Tielemans closely before and during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was convinced of the Belgian’s quality.

According to Mikel, Tielemans’ ability to play as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder gives Manchester United valuable tactical flexibility.

“He can operate as a six, an eight or a ten. Having a player who can play in different positions gives you options, and Tielemans has that versatility,” he added.

Mikel also praised the midfielder’s technical qualities, saying he scores goals, threatens from set-pieces, keeps possession well and reads the game intelligently despite lacking pace.

He concluded that Tielemans stands above every other midfielder signed this summer, although the Belgian is yet to make his Manchester United debut after suffering an injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.