De Jong, Berge, Ugarte - Manchester United midfield search complicated by two transfer standoffs
Man Utd are looking to strengthen their midfield in the final weeks of the summer transfer window.
Manchester United are keeping their options open as they look to strengthen their midfield in the final weeks of the summer transfer window.
Erik ten Hag has made adding another midfielder to his squad a priority before deadline day, with Paris Saint-Germain star Manuel Ugarte still viewed as an ideal candidate for the role. There is a problem though. United are not prepared to pay PSG's asking price of €60million for the Uruguay international and are exploring other options due to their budget restrictions.
In order for a deal for Ugarte to become a possibility again, United would most likely have to be prepared to pay more and PSG would have to compromise on their upfront demands, with a possible loan-to-buy deal or even a low upfront fee with sizeable add-ons included.
United are adamant they won't be held to ransom over transfer negotiations and will only pay what they deem is value for money in the market. This has led them to look at more cost effective options such as Burnley ace Sander Berge and former loanee Sofyan Amrabat, who could add quality to the side without using up the remainder of their summer budget.
A tentative approach has also been made to sound out the possibility of a move for Frenkie de Jong, though Hansi Flick is eager for the midfielder to remain at Barecelona this upcoming season. De Jong is still viewed as Ten Hag's dream addition in midfield, though a move has to be regarded as unlikely.
It is understood United have also made enquiries about Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who has entered the final year of his current deal, while Palmeiras star Richard Rios is also another option. United have an interest in Martin Zubimendi but he is valued in the same region as Ugarte, who would be their preferred addition of the two.
United's desire to add a midfielder is also complicated by their struggles to sell players in the position. Casemiro is likely to remain at the club amid a lack of interest in his signature, while Fulham have threatened to walk away from a deal for Scott McTominay unless his £30 million price-tag is lowered. Hannibal Mejbri is expected to be sold but his departure could be for a relatively low sum with a large sell-on clause included.
In an ideal world, United hope to sign at least a midfielder and another defender by deadline day and are keeping all options open in what is a very fluid situation.