Agreement, talks, open to move: Fabrizio Romano gives Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea transfer updates

Manchester United’s preparations for the new season are already underway, with clubs across the country now beginning to arrive for pre-season testing and the start of pre-season training. Erik ten Hag has plenty of work to do this summer, hoping to improve his squad while remaining within Profit and Sustainability rules, something that has left a number of Premier League sides scrambling over recent times.

The Red Devils disappointed last season, finishing outside the European spots, and significant improvement will be a must for Ten Hag and his men. New signings will be required for that to happen, while players will also need to leave. With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news surrounding Old Trafford provided by ‘insider’ Fabrizio Romano.

De Ligt links

United are said to have locked in on a centre-back target in Matthijs de Ligt, who has been linked on and off over recent years. Romano tweeted: “Manchester United made contact with Matthijs de Ligt’s camp as he’s one of the options being considered as new CB — including Branthwaite.

“De Ligt, open to joining United even with no UCL football. Bayern could sell de Ligt this summer, up to Man United decision.” De Ligt will reportedly command a price of around £30million, which will be significantly less than Branthwaite, but he is two years older.

Ugarte option

United are also expected to pursue a deal for a defensive midfielder this summer, and Manuel Ugarte is said to be an option. Romano reports that the Uruguay international could be sold by PSG, and that the Red Devils have shown an interest.

“Manchester United and PSG have been in touch again in the recent hours for Manuel Ugarte,” he wrote on X. “Ugarte has interest also from other clubs, PSG are open to selling him this summer and he’s expected to leave. He’d be open to joining United even without UCL. Still no formal bid.”

Osimhen latest

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is regularly being linked with a move away from Serie A, with Arsenal and Chelsea among those most regularly linked. The striker has had an up and down relationship with his current club, and it’s claimed he does now want to leave the club.

Romano has reported: “Victor Osimhen’s plan is still to leave Napoli this summer as movement is expected soon. After quiet June, Napoli expect proposals to arrive for Osimhen as he could be on the move; the release clause is around €120m. Preference for Premier League but story still open.”

Chelsea close in on deal

Speaking of Chelsea, the Blues are said to be closing in on a deal to sign Boca Juniors star Aaron Anselmino as they continue to add young, talented players to their squad. The Blues have already landed Omari Kellyman from Aston Villa and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City.

“Understand Chelsea are closing in on Aaron Anselmino deal after contact last night,” Romano wrote. “Agreement at final stages with Boca Juniors. Personal terms agreed on six year deal. Final detail discussed: Boca ask for Anselmino to stay at least for 6 months. Here we go, soon.”