Youssouf Fofana transfer latest, Man Utd have chance to repeat Joshua Zirkzee hijack

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Manchester United are reconsidering midfield options after deeming a deal for Manuel Ugarte too expensive.

A month ago it looked like Manuel Ugarte’s move to Manchester United was only a matter of time.

Now a potential move for Ugarte has been placed on hold, with United deciding to look at alternatives.

Ugarte is viewed as too expensive for United, and one very intriguing alternative is Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana.

• READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25

Youssouf Fofana latest

Manchester United made enquiries over a move for Youssouf Fofana on transfer deadline day last year Fabrizio Romano reported.

Sky Sports reported last week that Manchester United’s interest in Fofana still remains strong.

Fofana is expecting to leave Monaco this summer, where he has only one year left on his contract.

The France international remains at Monaco, although interest has been rising in his signature.

AC Milan are keen on a deal, however, TMW reports they do not want to meet Monaco’s £30 million asking price.

Their move is at a standstill, giving Manchester United an opportunity to now swoop in for the second time this summer to land a Milan target – if they wished.

Earlier this summer striker Joshua Zirkzee had appeared to be heading to AC Milan. Manchester United eventually hijacked the deal.

Fofana move may suit United

A move for Youssouf Fofana is one which may accelerate over the coming days, or between now and the transfer deadline.

But leave it too long, and he may head elsewhere. As it stands, Monaco and Milan’s stand-off presents United with a chance to swoop in.

Fofana, 25, would cost half the fee PSG want for Manuel Ugarte, allowing more funds to be spent on a centre-back, full-back, and even a striker if needed.

A cheap move for a second midfielder, perhaps a Sofyan Amrabat or free agent Adrien Rabiot, could then be made to supplement the Fofana arrival.

Let’s get one deal done first, but it’s clear midfield is an area which requires a re-think, and time is beginning to tick down towards the deadline.