Manuel Ugarte Open to Manchester United Move Amid PSG Exit Plans
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte is reportedly open to joining Manchester United, despite the club’s absence from the Champions League next season.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that discussions between United and PSG have intensified over the last few hours, paving the way for a potential summer transfer.
Ugarte’s Journey at PSG
The 23-year-old Uruguayan joined PSG from Sporting Lisbon last summer, with high expectations following his stellar performances in the Primeira Liga. However, his time at PSG has been less than ideal.
Despite making 37 appearances in all competitions, Ugarte found himself relegated to the bench for much of the second half of the season under manager Luis Enrique. Enrique preferred to field Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, and the emerging Warren Zaire-Emery in midfield, limiting Ugarte’s playing time and leading to speculation about his future.
Reasons for the Potential Transfer
Ugarte’s desire for more regular first-team football aligns with United’s need for a robust defensive midfielder. The Red Devils are currently seeking a player who can fill the void left by Casemiro, whose performance levels have waned. Ugarte’s blend of defensive acumen and ball distribution could make him an ideal candidate for this role.
Ugarte’s Attributes and Fit for United
Ugarte’s playing style combines defensive solidity with impressive passing ability, making him a valuable asset in midfield. Last season, he completed 91% of his passes and excelled in defensive metrics, averaging 6.3 duels won and 7.2 recoveries per league game.
His tackling ability is also noteworthy, with an average of 3.9 tackles per game for PSG, though he does occasionally get dribbled past. PSG has lauded him as a ‘tireless’ midfielder, reflecting his relentless work rate on the pitch.
Financial Considerations
PSG’s decision to part ways with Ugarte could be financially motivated, as they look to balance their squad and potentially make room for new signings. United, on the other hand, would be acquiring a player with significant upside for a reported fee of £38 million, a price that reflects both his potential and the urgency of PSG’s decision to sell.
As Manchester United continue their rebuild under manager Erik ten Hag, the acquisition of Manuel Ugarte could be a crucial step in solidifying their midfield.
Despite not having Champions League football to offer next season, United’s appeal and the promise of regular playing time could be enough to attract Ugarte to Old Trafford. This transfer could mark a significant statement in their pursuit of revitalizing their squad for future success.
Manuel Ugarte Open to Manchester United Move Amid PSG Exit Plans
