Manchester United Eye Summer Move for Paris Saint-Germain Midfielder Manuel Ugarte
Manchester United Eye Summer Move for Paris Saint-Germain Midfielder Manuel Ugarte
Manchester United are reportedly keen on bolstering their midfield options this summer, with Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) rising star, Manuel Ugarte, emerging as a top target. The 22-year-old Uruguayan midfielder has caught the attention of United’s management, who see him as the ideal candidate to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2024/2025 Premier League campaign.
Manuel Ugarte has been a revelation since joining PSG from Sporting CP in the summer of 2023. Despite being relatively young, Ugarte quickly established himself as a key figure in the Parisian midfield, displaying a mix of tenacity, tactical awareness, and ball-winning ability that has impressed both fans and pundits alike. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several top European clubs monitoring his progress.
Ugarte’s adaptability and strong work ethic have made him a favorite of PSG manager Luis Enrique, who has frequently praised the midfielder’s contribution to the team. “Manuel is a player with immense potential. He has shown great maturity on the pitch, and his understanding of the game is beyond his years,” Enrique commented in a recent interview.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made no secret of his desire to reinforce the midfield, an area that has been a focal point in his ongoing squad rebuild at Old Trafford. With the departures of Fred to Fenerbahçe and the aging of Nemanja Matić, United are in need of fresh energy and dynamism in the center of the park.
Ugarte’s profile fits the bill perfectly for United’s needs. Known for his combative style and ability to break up play, the Uruguayan also possesses the technical skills to distribute the ball effectively and initiate attacks. His versatility allows him to play as a defensive midfielder or in a box-to-box role, providing Ten Hag with tactical flexibility.
According to sources close to the club, United’s interest in Ugarte is part of a broader strategy to build a young, dynamic, and technically proficient midfield. The Red Devils have already secured the services of Mason Mount from Chelsea earlier in the transfer window, and adding Ugarte to the mix would significantly enhance their options.
While United’s interest in Ugarte is strong, securing his signature could prove to be challenging. PSG are reportedly reluctant to part ways with the midfielder, who they view as a long-term asset. Ugarte’s current contract with PSG runs until 2028, meaning that any potential deal would likely require a substantial transfer fee.
However, United are said to be willing to back Ten Hag in the transfer market, recognizing the need to strengthen the squad to compete at the highest level domestically and in Europe. The club is expected to open discussions with PSG in the coming weeks, with hopes of reaching an agreement before the transfer window closes.
Another potential hurdle is competition from other top European clubs. Ugarte’s performances in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League have not only impressed Manchester United but have also drawn interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. United will need to move swiftly and decisively if they are to secure the midfielder’s services.
Should United successfully land Ugarte, his impact on the team could be significant. His presence in midfield would provide much-needed stability and allow the more creative players, such as Bruno Fernandes and Mount, to operate with greater freedom. Ugarte’s ability to shield the defense and win back possession would also relieve some of the defensive burden on Casemiro, allowing the Brazilian to focus more on his box-to-box role.
Additionally, Ugarte’s arrival would add depth to United’s midfield, an area that has been exposed in recent seasons due to injuries and suspensions. His versatility means he can slot into various tactical setups, whether United play with a double pivot or a single holding midfielder.
In the long term, Ugarte’s age and potential for further development make him an attractive prospect for United. At 22, he is yet to reach his prime, and under Ten Hag’s guidance, he could develop into one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.
As the summer transfer window enters its final weeks, Manchester United’s pursuit of Manuel Ugarte is expected to intensify. The club’s hierarchy, led by football director John Murtough and CEO Richard Arnold, are working closely with Ten Hag to ensure that the squad is in the best possible shape for the upcoming season.
United’s fans will be eager to see how the transfer saga unfolds, with hopes high that Ugarte could be the latest addition to an already exciting squad. If the deal goes through, it would not only strengthen United’s midfield but also send a message to their rivals that the Red Devils are serious about challenging for major honors once again.
