Fabrizio Romano reveals Manchester United 'close' to fifth summer signing after 'positive' meeting

Fabrizio Romano says Manchester United are 'close' to completing a deal to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte in the final week of the summer transfer window.

United have already completed four major signings this summer and are looking to make Ugarte their fifth as they look to reinforce their midfield options before deadline day.

Erik ten Hag identified the 23-year-old as his top midfield target, but the deal initially reached a halt amid PSG's reluctance to lower their €60 million asking price. However, it is understood the French giants are now open to sanctioning a loan exit with the obligation to make the move permanent in a year's time.

United's finances are tight following their four previous signings and while they insist a midfield addition does not rely on selling players first, securing an initial loan deal for Ugarte would certainly ease their financial situation.

Taking to social media on Thursday afternoon, Romano posted: "Manchester United are now close to getting Manu Ugarte deal done!

“As revealed last week, #MUFC want to proceed with loan + obligation to buy and meeting with PSG was positive. No bids for Ederson — Man Utd want Ugarte, details being discussed. Deal at final stages."

Ten Hag could be quizzed on United's interest in Ugarte when he speaks to the press on Thursday afternoon to preview the weekend trip to face Brighton in the Premier League. United are open to selling midfielder Scott McTominay, Hannibal Mejbri and Christian Eriksen in the final week of the window, having also agreed to sell Maxi Oyedele to Legia Warsaw.