Manchester United’s summer transfer spree is showing no signs of slowing down, with the Red Devils on the brink of securing their fifth major signing. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club is edging closer to finalizing a deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s talented midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
The summer window has already seen United bolster their squad with the acquisitions of Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui. However, it seems they are not done yet, as they now turn their attention to Ugarte, who is set to become the latest addition to Erik ten Hag’s evolving squad.
Romano’s Update: Ugarte Only Wants United
In a recent update, Fabrizio Romano shared that Manchester United is “set to close” the deal for Ugarte, with the transfer likely to be a permanent one. What’s more, Romano highlighted that Ugarte is keen on the move, stating that the 23-year-old “only wants United” and is “ready to travel” to Manchester once an agreement is sealed.
This development comes on the heels of United agreeing to part ways with long-serving midfielder Scott McTominay. McTominay, who has been a loyal servant to the club, is set to join Napoli in a deal worth £25 million, including add-ons. The Scottish international could finalize his move within the next 24 to 48 hours, opening the door for Ugarte’s arrival.
Ugarte to Reinforce United’s Midfield
The potential signing of Ugarte could prove to be a significant boost for United, particularly in the central midfield role. The club is reportedly prepared to meet PSG’s asking price of £51 million for the Uruguayan, who has already agreed on personal terms with the Red Devils. Once the final agreement with PSG is in place, the move could become a mere formality.
Ugarte, at just 23 years old, is seen as a perfect fit for United’s midfield alongside rising star Kobbie Mainoo. His all-around abilities, including tackling, ball recovery, and possession retention, make him an ideal candidate to strengthen United’s core. Comparisons have already been made between Ugarte and Casemiro, with both players known for their defensive prowess. However, Ugarte is also recognized for his technical skill and composure on the ball, attributes that could see him become a mainstay in the United lineup for years to come.
A Long-Term Solution in Midfield
The signing of Ugarte would address a key area of concern for Manchester United. While Casemiro has been a reliable presence in midfield, his form has been inconsistent over the past year, leading to questions about his long-term future at the club. Ugarte’s arrival would provide a younger, more dynamic option, potentially forming a formidable partnership with Mainoo in the heart of United’s midfield.
As United continues to rebuild under Erik ten Hag, the addition of Ugarte could be a crucial piece in the puzzle. With his blend of defensive solidity and ball-playing ability, Ugarte has the potential to elevate United’s midfield to new heights, helping the club compete with their Premier League rivals for years to come.
The Red Devils’ faithful will be eagerly awaiting the official announcement, as the club edges closer to securing one of the most exciting young talents in European football.
United fans reaction on x:
Here’s a brief statistical comparison between Manuel Ugarte and Scott McTominay based on their recent performances:
1. Defensive Contributions:
- Tackles per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 3.9 tackles
- Scott McTominay: 1.7 tackles
- Interceptions per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 2.4 interceptions
- Scott McTominay: 0.9 interceptions
Ugarte excels defensively with a higher rate of tackles and interceptions, highlighting his strong ball-winning ability in the midfield.
2. Passing and Ball Retention:
- Pass Completion Rate:
- Manuel Ugarte: 91.6%
- Scott McTominay: 83.4%
- Progressive Passes per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 4.2
- Scott McTominay: 2.3
Ugarte is more reliable with the ball, boasting a higher pass completion rate and contributing more in terms of advancing play through progressive passes.
3. Physical Presence:
- Aerial Duels Won per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 1.6
- Scott McTominay: 2.8
McTominay has an advantage in aerial duels, reflecting his height and physicality, which are important in winning headers and controlling the midfield from the air.
4. Attacking Contributions:
- Goals per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 0.05
- Scott McTominay: 0.12
- Shots per 90 minutes:
- Manuel Ugarte: 0.6
- Scott McTominay: 1.1
McTominay has been slightly more involved in attacking play, contributing more in terms of goals and shots, though neither is particularly known for their offensive output.
Summary:
Manuel Ugarte stands out in defensive metrics, showing a more aggressive and effective approach to breaking up opposition play. His superior passing accuracy and progressive passing also indicate a more refined ability to retain and distribute the ball. McTominay, on the other hand, offers more physicality and a marginally better presence in aerial duels and attacking contributions. Overall, Ugarte’s profile suggests a more dynamic and technically adept defensive midfielder, whereas McTominay is more of a traditional box-to-box player with a physical edge.
Expert Opinions on Ugarte’s Potential Impact
Football analysts have been increasingly vocal about Manuel Ugarte’s potential and how he could thrive in the Premier League, especially at a club like Manchester United. Guillem Balague, a renowned football journalist, has praised Ugarte’s defensive attributes, noting that his “tackling and interception skills are among the best for a player his age in Europe.” Balague also mentioned that Ugarte’s ability to read the game and break up play is “reminiscent of players like N’Golo Kanté at his peak.”
Tim Vickery, an expert on South American football, has highlighted Ugarte’s maturity on the ball, saying that “his composure under pressure and ability to maintain possession make him stand out in a crowded midfield.” Vickery believes that Ugarte has “the right mix of technical and physical attributes to succeed in the physically demanding Premier League.”
Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has also weighed in, suggesting that Ugarte could be a transformative signing for the Red Devils. “Ugarte has that grit and determination United have been missing in midfield. His work rate and tactical intelligence are exactly what’s needed to provide stability alongside more attacking players,” Hargreaves remarked in a recent discussion.
These endorsements underline the high regard in which Ugarte is held by those who have closely followed his career. If he can adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, Ugarte has the potential to become a key figure in Manchester United’s midfield for years to come.
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