It is no secret that Manchester United are in the market for a collection of new faces to bolster a promising first-team squad.
Amongst the desired positions is a central midfielder, with a Uruguayan destroyer reportedly a desired target.
Paris Saint-German holding player Manuel Ugarte enjoyed a promising debut campaign in France following his move one year ago.
The man once described as a “revelation” by L’Équipe for his ease of transition into the Ligue 1 side has a deal running at Parc des Princes until June 2028.
But, as reported by Sky Sports, Ugarte is one of several names the Manchester giants are keeping tabs on.
What could supporters expect?
The player is participating in Uruguay’s Copa America venture, having made 37 appearances across all competitions for Les Rouge-et-Bleu.
Moving from Portugal to France for a fee in the region of £51 Million, the 23-year-old provided steel to the heart of Luis Enrique’s team.
He ranked in the top percentile in Europe for tackles (4.11), dribblers challenged (4.3), tackles/interceptions (5.97), and ball recoveries (8.14) per 90 minutes across the season.
Additionally, he was in the top four percentile for midfield interceptions (1.86) and in the second percentile for tackles won per 90′ with 2.32.
These are the definition of elite defensive metrics in the game, and at 23 – the Old Trafford faithful would inherit a midfield dynamo to dominate for a decade.
Can a deal be completed?
A deal for a player of this calibre would likely require a fee over £60 M to convince the Paris outfit to part company with their man.
Furthermore, he is in contract for four more years and has not requested a move.
Given United’s necessity for compliance with the Profit and Sustainability Rules, a potential deal would rely on outgoings to facilitate the transfer fee.
However, his presence ahead of Lisandro Martinez would supply additional steel and alleviate the defensive burden on Kobbie Mainoo.
With a notable pass completion rate of 95.4% through the channels, his desire to accelerate transitions would suit the Ten Hag dynamic.
It remains unclear if the Red Devils can convince the Frech kingpins to part company with their asset, but this would be a mammoth acquisition for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co.
Would you like to see Ugarte in Red? Let us know in the comments or on our social channels.
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