Manchester United are expecting to make a move for midfielder Manuel Ugarte, and there is lots of reason to be excited.
The transfer window is heating up for Manchester United with the club’s second signing almost complete.
Leny Yoro has agreed to sign for United, following Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee, and the two players address much-needed squad gaps in defence and attack.
The next position Manchester United will target is going to be midfield, and Manuel Ugarte is set to be a standout option.
- READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25
Manchester United want Manuel Ugarte in quickly
One of the reasons the Leny Yoro deal has created such a buzz is the speed Ineos have worked at to conclude the move.
This has not been a drawn-out lengthy saga like the ones we have become accustomed to under the Glazers.
And this rapid pursuit of a key target looks like it could be set to continue with Manuel Ugarte.
HITC report Manchester United are determined to land Ugarte before the club’s pre-season tour of the USA.
United are said to have received ‘glowing reports’ on Ugarte’s character and skillset and see him as an ideal transfer target in midfield.
Paris Saint-Germain are chasing Joao Neves and so could be willing to allow Ugarte to leave the club after just 12 months.
Ugarte, 23, could be one of the final pieces of the puzzle for Manchester United, and also provide a shield in front of defence to protect new signing Leny Yoro.
Data showed Ugarte was the top midfielder at the Copa America, and he might end up replacing the declining Casemiro at United.
This soft ‘deadline’ to get Ugarte in before the tour gives the club an extra incentive to act quickly, and it makes sense, to get the new signing in as quickly as possible to begin training with his new teammates.
Manuel Ugarte fee yet to be agreed
Manchester United’s desire to get Manuel Ugarte in quickly is exciting news for the fanbase if it all comes to fruition.
There are a couple of stumbling blocks. One is the matter of price. A fee is yet to be agreed with Paris Saint-Germain.
United may also need to sell before buying, and no bids have yet been received for Casemiro. The Guardian has suggested a loan move could be a possibility.
The good news is personal terms with Ugarte have been agreed, Fabrizio Romano has reported.
Another issue is that Ugarte is on his break after the Copa America. You would imagine this would not hold up his move too much but there could be a minor delay depending on where he is on holiday.
The positive side is that Manchester United are moving towards this with purpose. If there is a chance to sign Ugarte, Ineos will do everything they can to get it tied up as quickly as possible.
The past week has been a hectic one for transfer activity for the club – and this looks set to continue.
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