Manchester United are reportedly considering alternative midfield targets as the asking price for Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte proves too costly. The Red Devils are exploring "cheaper options" after already securing a double deal for Bayern Munich duo Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for a combined £60 million.
The arrival of De Ligt and Mazraoui provides a timely boost for Erik ten Hag's side, who were missing several key players during their penalty defeat to Manchester City in the Community Shield. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has revealed the details of the agreements with Bayern Munich, stating: "De Ligt will be joining the Red Devils for â¬45m plus â¬5m in add-ons. Bayern sources say these add-ons will be quite easy to reach, but it's still structured quite favourably for United. And for Mazraoui, it's also â¬15m plus â¬5m in add-ons."
Romano further confirmed that both players have been waiting for the move to Old Trafford, with De Ligt agreeing terms with his agent back in June. Mazraoui, meanwhile, has been patiently awaiting the transfer since July, even as United explored other right-back options. This move sees the club bolster their defensive ranks as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.
However, the focus now shifts to the midfield, where Ugarte remains the "top target." But with PSG reportedly unwilling to budge on their asking price, United are exploring other options. Romano highlighted Burnley's Sander Berge as a "one to watch," indicating he is among the "Plan B options behind Ugarte." He added: "United also remain busy in the search for a new midfielder â they spoke with the agents of Sander Berge and have considered other options, but their top target remains Manuel Ugarte."
With PSG refusing to negotiate, United might be forced to sell a player from their midfield to finance the Ugarte deal. Romano suggests both Scott McTominay and Casemiro could be potential departures. However, the club are also exploring the possibility of bringing in a cheaper midfielder, with Berge and Sofyan Amrabat, who was on loan at United last season, both considered viable alternatives.
United's summer transfer window continues to be a busy one, with the club seeking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. While the arrival of De Ligt and Mazraoui is a positive step, securing a new midfielder remains a priority, with the search for a suitable replacement for Ugarte likely to continue throughout the transfer window.
