Edwin van der Sar proud of Manchester United’s new signing Donny van de Beek

Manchester United new boy Donny van de Beek has been hailed as the “embodiment of the pride” that former Ajax club has in its young players.

In an open letter to United fans, Ajax chief executive and former Red Devils goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar asked them to help the Dutch national team’s “dream”.

The 23-year-old moved to Old Trafford on Wednesday for £ 34.1 million, which could rise to £ 38.5 million, with an initial five-year contract to become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first new recruit of the summer.

Van de Beek played an important role in Ajax’s thrilling run to last year’s Champions League semi-finals, and even came off the bench when the Eredivisie side lost the 2017 Europa League final to United.

Van der Sar, who spent six years at United before returning to Ajax’s first club in a behind-the-scenes role, has now told fans what an exciting prospect their latest signing is.

“Dear Manchester United fans, I hope you are doing well,” he wrote. “It seems our paths have crossed again.

“One of ours joins you this season. And like so many players before him, he’s been with us since he was just a kid.

“Shortly after his debut, he became one of our best. Especially the last two years have been fantastic. From the Europa League final (with no hard feelings) to our Champions League run and winning the Dutch championship.

“The team he was part of showed the world who we are and what Ajax represent. Like you, we pride ourselves on being one of the best at developing talent and giving young players a chance at the highest level. It could be said that your new star is the embodiment of that pride. “

Van der Sar signed on admitting that it was difficult for Ajax to let one of their best players go, but that it was necessary for Van de Beek to develop.

“This is one of the many reasons we don’t like seeing him leave, but we understand it’s time for him to move on. To dream, ”his open letter continued.

“And what better place to do it than in your own theater. Believe me, I know. Please take care of our Donny and help him dream. Enjoy the future. “

Van de Beek completed his move while on international duty, with the Netherlands poised for a double Nations League match against Poland and Italy before connecting with his new teammates and echoed Van der Sar’s sentiments. as he spoke after his signature.

“I can’t begin to explain how incredible the opportunity is to join a club with such an amazing history,” Van de Beek said in an interview with Manchester United’s official website.

“I would like to thank everyone at Ajax, I grew up there and will always have a special bond with the club.

“Now I’m ready to take the next step in my career and perform at the highest level and there is no higher standard than Manchester United.”