Axel Tuanzebe: Aston Villa's promotion push convinced me to join

The 20-year-old will spend the rest of the season at Villa Park, after completing his move from Old Trafford on Thursday.

Tuanzebe was courted by a number of clubs but admitted the opportunity to play a role in a promotion push was the biggest factor in opting for Villa.

“First and foremost it was the promotion that intrigued me,” he said.

“There were a lot of other offers but I think the challenge of winning promotion here stood out.

“The manager interested me because he has the background at Manchester United.

“I spoke to him a couple of times. You need support from the manager that can help you on and off the pitch, particularly when you are away from home.

“I want to improve myself as a player, getting the right minutes at the right place.

“I’m here to fight, to play and help the team win promotion.”

Tuanzebe, who is Villa boss Steve Bruce’s first signing of the January transfer window, can play in both central defence and midfield.

“My most comfortable position is centre-back,” he said. “But I like playing centre midfield too because you are more involved in the play.

“If I can help the team win promotion I would like to chip in with a couple of goals, maybe stop a couple too.

“I think I am ready for the next stage. This club is striving for promotion. It belongs in the Premier League. I want to help them get there.”