Manchester United’s ambitious move for PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte has hit a snag! The Red Devils’ offer has been rejected by the Parisian giants. Despite the setback, United are expected to remain in pursuit as they aim to bolster their midfield options. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next steps in this transfer saga. Will United come back with an improved bid, or will they turn their attention elsewhere? Stay tuned for all the latest updates and insider news!
Manchester United has made a bid to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte, as reported by L’Equipe. Despite United’s interest, PSG rejected their initial offer for the Uruguayan international, who is drawing attention from several clubs across England, Italy, and Germany this summer.
Ugarte, currently under contract with PSG until 2028, joined the French club last year from Sporting Lisbon in a deal worth £51.8 million. The 23-year-old midfielder had a challenging season, struggling to secure a regular spot in Luis Enrique’s starting lineup, managing to start just 21 matches in Ligue 1 and missing both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund.
Manchester United, who had shown interest in Ugarte before his move to PSG, appear to have rekindled their interest this summer. Erik ten Hag’s team is seeking a new starting midfielder, with rumors circulating about Casemiro’s potential departure to Saudi Pro League clubs after two years with United.
The bid for Ugarte follows reports from Fabrizio Romano indicating uncertainty about the future of United’s midfielders Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Sofyan Amrabat. Romano suggests that Casemiro and Eriksen might leave this summer, while the club has yet to decide on Amrabat’s future after his strong performances during his loan spell.
L’Equipe confirms that INEOS, part-owner of Manchester United, has approved the pursuit of Ugarte, with negotiations ongoing despite the initial offer being rejected. United is still looking to secure a midfield partner for rising star Kobbie Mainoo as they aim to revamp the squad following a disappointing league campaign.
At 23, Ugarte represents a move towards younger talent, aligning with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s strategy to shift Manchester United’s transfer focus. The midfielder, currently on international duty with Uruguay at the 2024 Copa America, is also attracting interest from AC Milan, according to Italian reports.
In addition to Ugarte, Manchester United is advancing in talks to sign Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, as reported by Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth. While a potential deal for the Netherlands international is progressing, Sheth notes that there is still much to be done. United is also considering other options for a strike partner for Rasmus Hojlund, including Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier. Zirkzee, who has a £34 million release clause, has also caught the attention of AC Milan after an impressive season in Serie A.