Man United close in on Manuel Ugarte agreement – sources
Man United are set to step up their pursuit of PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte in the coming days, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Ugarte, 23, remains the top target for United and they are pushing to reach an agreement with PSG as talks advance over a deal.
Sources say the midfielder has given the green light for the move after Luis Enrique told him he has no place in his plans for the upcoming season.
However, the French outfit’s asking price remains a sticking point in the deal and United have been forced to consider other options.
Erik ten Hag is prioritising the signing of a new defensive midfielder this summer to replace the ageing Casemiro, following his disappointing displays last season.
Football Insider revealed that Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana and Burnley’s Sander Berge are other names on the Red Devils’ list of targets.
Man United pushing to sign Manuel Ugarte as big-money spending spree continues
United have already landed four incoming deals this summer, with big money spent on the likes of Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, but Ten Hag is still keen to add to his squad.
Casemiro’s performances towards the end of last season raised red flags for United’s coaching staff, and a long-term replacement has become a priority this summer.
However, they have so far failed to reach an agreement for any of their top targets in his position and remain locked in negotiations with PSG over Ugarte.
Sources say the French champions are demanding upwards of £50million for the defensive midfielder despite telling him he is free to leave.
The midfielder has been on United’s radar since his impressive spell at Sporting CP and remains highly rated despite a mixed spell in France.
The defensive midfielder played 37 games last season after making the £51million move to PSG in the summer of 2023 – and they are now looking to break even on their investment.
In other news, Man United have told Christian Eriksen to find a new club.
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