Manchester United are poised to reinforce their midfield ahead of next season.
The club recently sent a delegation to Atalanta to negotiate a deal for midfielder Ederson, and journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that talks are ‘advanced’ with the player too.
United have yet to make a final decision, but it appears the Brazil international could end up as the Red Devils’ first major signing in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The hierarchy are also expected to pursue a second midfield signing this summer. Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali has been heavily linked with reports that a deal could be close.
United have already confirmed that Casemiro will depart when his contract expires at the end of June, but there could well be another departure soon in the form of Manuel Ugarte.
The Uruguay international was signed from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024 for £42.5m upfront, after United were unable to strike a deal with Atalanta for Ederson’s services.
The move seemed ideal at the time due to Ugarte’s work rate, high pressing and ball distribution skills, but things have gone pear-shaped, with the 25-year-old failing to adapt.
While his distribution and work rate have been upto expectations, the former Sporting CP man has been poor with his positioning and defensive awareness on numerous occasions.
United manager Michael Carrick recently picked Mason Mount alongside Kobbie Mainoo against Brighton & Hove Albion after he confirmed that Casemiro had played his last United game.
That decision was a big indication that Ugarte is deemed surplus to requirements. The South American was left as an unused substitute in his final five league matches for the Red Devils.
Despite this, there is no shortage of interest in the experienced midfielder. Napoli and Atletico Madrid are known to be keen admirers, but United may have to accept a significant financial loss.
The Red Devils previously bought Rasmus Hojlund for £64 million upfront from Atalanta. He was loaned out to Napoli for £5m last summer and has since joined them for an initial £38m plus £4m in add-ons.
It has been claimed that United have set an asking price of just £24m to part ways with Ugarte, but we personally believe the fee should be stretched to £30m with possible future add-ons.
Ugarte will be at the World Cup with Uruguay despite limited minutes at United. It remains to be seen whether the club opt for an early transfer or wait for his return from the tournament.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com