Ex-Manchester United star joins newly promoted LaLiga side Real Oviedo as they aim to survive in top flight

Real Oviedo have announced the signing of a former Manchester United star.

The LaLiga outfit confirmed on Monday afternoon that they have completed the signing of the free agent, who was released by Villarreal earlier this summer.

Eric Bailly spent seven years at Old Trafford between 2016 and 2023, making 113 appearances for the Red Devils.

The 31-year-old now joins newly-promoted Oviedo after spells with the yellow Submarine and Besiktas.

The club, captained by former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla, pulled off a romantic return to the Spanish top flight after a 24-year absence, winning the LaLiga 2 play-off final.

A statement on their website read: 'Real Oviedo and Eric Bailly have reached an agreement for the Ivorian footballer to join the club from the capital of the Principality until June 30, 2027.

'Eric Bailly was born on April 12, 1994, in Bingerville, Ivory Coast. His journey in Spanish football began at just 17 years old when he joined RCD Espanyol, where he made his La Liga debut in 2014. His impressive performance with the Catalan club led Villarreal CF to take notice of him in January 2015.

'With the Yellow Submarine, Bailly played a total of 47 matches and became an important player, characterized by his power and prowess in aerial duels.

'With many clubs interested in securing his services, Manchester United took the lead in the summer of 2016 and paid a significant amount of money to Villarreal CF, making his sale the most expensive in the history of the Castellón team.

'The defender subsequently played for Olympique de Marseille and Beşiktaş before returning to Villarreal CF on December 30, 2023. At the time, the U19 was going through a difficult time in LALIGA and Eric Bailly was key to the team's improvement during the second half of the season.

'Now, the Ivorian footballer has joined Real Oviedo to strengthen Paunovic's team and become a new signing for the Blues.'

Oviedo's campaign began with defeat on Friday night as they were beaten by Bailly's former club 2-0 in their LaLiga opener.