AJ Auxerre officially sign former Manchester United defender

Manchester United have entered the final stages of transfer deadline day with plenty still happening around Old Trafford.

Joshua Zirkzee is now set to leave the club for Everton after weeks of uncertainty surrounding his future.

Meanwhile, United have also made a tentative enquiry for Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Left-back has been a major talking point throughout the summer, although Harry Amass is now expected to remain at United despite Burnley holding talks over a move.

There has also been movement away from Carrington involving former United players, with another defender who came through the academy now securing his next club.

Former Manchester United defender completes move

AJ Auxerre have officially announced the signing of Axel Tuanzebe.

The Ligue 1 side confirmed the move on their official website, with the 28-year-old joining as a free agent after leaving Burnley.

Tuanzebe has signed a one-year contract with the option of a further season and will wear the number four shirt.

His move comes after Wrexham held talks over signing the defender earlier this summer.

Tuanzebe’s story at United was one of huge promise repeatedly interrupted by injuries.

He joined the academy at eight, captained United at several youth levels and eventually made his senior debut under Jose Mourinho in 2017.

There were nights when his potential looked obvious, particularly when he was trusted against elite opposition, but repeated fitness setbacks stopped him building any real rhythm in the first team.

He ultimately made 37 senior appearances for United before leaving in 2023.

His career became more stable at Ipswich Town, where he helped the club win promotion to the Premier League before later joining Burnley.

Tuanzebe has also rebuilt his international career with DR Congo and played a major role in their historic 2026 World Cup campaign.

The move to France now gives him another chance to establish himself as a regular after a career which has rarely lacked ability, but has often lacked continuity.