Manchester United may table an offer for Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte “as soon as this week”, according to CaughtOffside.com.
The website claims that the Uruguayan international is open to a transfer to the Premier League, having struggled to establish himself during his first season at PSG.
Ugarte was signed by the Ligue One champions from Sporting Lisbon for €60m (£51m) last summer, but manager Luis Enrique has not been convinced by his performances.
Last campaign, the 23-year-old started only 21 league games, and he was an unused substitute in both legs of PSG’s Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund.
United’s rivals are aware of the midfielder’s availability
With his club keen on offloading him, Ugarte has reportedly been offered to more than one team in the Premier League in recent weeks.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool are also said to have been given the opportunity to secure his services, along with United. However, it does appear as though Erik ten Hag’s side are the only English club prepared to step up their interest and table a formal proposal. That could, of course, still change, especially as the player has made it clear that he would like to play in this country.
Ugarte’s asking price is quite steep
It is believed that PSG are keen to recoup as much as possible of the €60m (£51m) they spent on Ugarte so it is unlikely any bid below the £45m to £50m mark would be accepted.
With United needing to spend carefully during the summer transfer window, it is not certain whether they have the funds to meet the current valuation.
One alternative would be to offer a loan deal, with an option (or obligation) to buy next year. That would allow the Red Devils to avoid any potential issues with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
