Following months of prolonged negotiations, Manuel Ugarte has sealed his move to Manchester United in a €50 million deal, with an additional €10m in performance-based clauses.
The Uruguay international departs Paris Saint-Germain, signing a deal until June 2029 with an option to extend for an additional year.
Dan Ashworth and Erik ten Hag identified the midfielder as a primary target early on, craving a player to supply balance in the heart of the United lineup.
His arrival adds a dogged defensive mentality with European-leading metrics in tackles, ball recoveries and interceptions.
Crucially, his pose at the base of a midfield trio will accommodate the forward progression of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes.
Depth, Desire and Determination
Sources close to the Theatre of Red have confirmed a long-standing interest in the Uruguayan, with United scouts invested in his talents during his time in Lisbon.
The 23-year-old will undoubtedly play a starring role for Ten Hag, but his acquisition supplies further depth and steel to the squad.
Ugarte’s desire to join the Premier League outfit is commendable, setting his stall early about the prospect of a move and ensuring he played his part in any deal.
His defensive attributes and assurance in distribution will go a long way to alleviating a frustrating back-and-forth transition from defence to attack.
Furthermore, his success when deployed in a high press is amongst the finest tools across the continental game.
Make no mistake, while the Copa America star may not generate an illustrious appeal for some, the nature of his arsenal is the definition of a systematic signing which will propel Ten Hag’s side throughout the season.
A fundamental criticism of this United side has been a lack of balance on the field.
In Ugarte, the Old Trafford faithful can greet a man previously labelled a “revelation” by L’Équipe for settling a group of individuals in Paris.
Perhaps the player who will be happiest on his arrival is Mainoo – with the teenager now expected to impose his will further upfield.
Casemiro will also benefit from the support of a younger option – as will Toby Collyer, who continues to impress on the training field.
Ratcliffe stated it would take two to three summer windows to recognise his ambitions for the squad.
Well, in a few short months, his footprint is evident in the North West, with shrewd signings that accommodate the required skillset and age profile for an illustrious rebuild.
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