Manchester United are reportedly closing in on the signing of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte, with the Uruguay international said to have come to an agreement with the Red Devils over a five-year deal.
Erik ten Hag's side are determined to boost their midfield options before the summer transfer window closes for business, and Ugarte has been heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford, seemingly being viewed as their leading target in that area of the field.
Recent reports have claimed that Man United have cooled their interest in the South American, with PSG unwilling to drop their asking price, which is believed to be around £51m.
However, the Red Devils have allegedly remained in talks with the French champions, and according to journalist Nicolo Schira, a breakthrough has occurred.
Schira, via X, claims that the midfielder is now 'one step away' from making the move to the 20-time English champions, with personal terms on a five-year contract already being agreed.
© Imago
Man United 'make Ugarte breakthrough'
On Wednesday, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said that Ugarte was 'insisting a lot' for a switch to Ten Hag's side, with the 23-year-old making it clear that he wants to join the English giants this summer.
PSG remain open to selling Ugarte for the right price, and the midfielder's agent Jorge Mendes is believed to be confident that a deal will go through before the transfer window closes for business.
Man United have already made four signings this summer, with Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui arriving to boost the defence, while Joshua Zirkzee has arrived in a forward area.
However, a new central midfielder is also viewed as a priority for the club in the latter stages of the market.
Casemiro and Scott McTominay could remain at Old Trafford despite the speculation surrounding their futures, but Christian Eriksen is widely expected to leave.
© Reuters
Would Ugarte be a good signing for Man United?
Man United need a defensive midfielder who is mobile and strong in possession, and it would be fair to say that Ugarte fits that brief.
The South American was a regular for PSG last season, making 37 appearances in all competitions, providing three assists in the process, but the French giants are willing to let him leave for the right price.
Ugarte starred for his country at this summer's Copa America, and he looks to be the perfect fit for the Premier League considering his skill set.
Man United were far too open in the middle of the pitch last season, and it is clear that Ten Hag wants to address that problem this summer, with Ugarte potentially operating alongside Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo in midfield this term.
Such a formation could see Bruno Fernandes play higher up behind a front two, with Ten Hag looking to put together a team capable of challenging for major trophies.
Matt Law
