Manchester United are on the verge of sealing a major summer signing, as they close in on a €60 million (£51m) deal to bring Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain to Old Trafford.
Eager to don the Red Devils’ jersey, Ugarte has reportedly agreed to personal terms with United as far back as July. Despite initial hesitation from United to meet PSG’s €70 million asking price for the Uruguayan midfielder, persistent negotiations have brought the clubs closer to an agreement.
Discussions initially explored various options, including a permanent transfer this summer or a loan deal with an obligation to buy next year. However, a recent report from Le Parisien suggests that the clubs are nearing a definitive agreement for a permanent transfer, which could be finalized in the coming days.
United are set to pay £51 million for the 23-year-old, nearly matching the fee PSG paid Sporting Lisbon for him just last summer. Though a few details remain to be ironed out, Ugarte’s move to Manchester appears imminent.
Since arriving in Paris last year, Ugarte’s role in PSG’s first team has diminished, especially as the 2023-24 season progressed. The arrival of Joao Neves from Benfica has pushed Ugarte further down the pecking order, leading PSG boss Luis Enrique to leave him out of the squad for their season opener against Le Havre.
If the deal goes through, Ugarte will become United’s fifth signing of the summer, joining Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui in Erik ten Hag’s revamped squad. Strengthening the midfield has been a top priority for United, especially after a slim opening-game lineup featured Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro at the heart of the midfield against Fulham.
With Napoli interested in Scott McTominay and United open to selling Christian Eriksen for £5 million before the transfer window closes, Ugarte’s arrival could provide the much-needed depth and quality in the middle of the park.
