1
As Manchester United close in on the signing of Manuel Ugarte, Fabrizio Romano revealed just how critical the deal was to the club’s transfer strategy this summer.
Following a long and tumultuous negotiation with Paris-Saint Germain for the player, United are finally set to welcome Ugarte to the club.
This morning, The Peoples Person relayed news that Ugarte was already travelling to Manchester to undergo his medical at Old Trafford.
Not long after, Romano gave his iconic “Here We Go” announcement, confirming that United and PSG had finalised an agreement for Ugarte.
It was reported that the deal is worth €50 million plus €10 million in variables.
Still, Romano went on to describe the true nature of the deal, shedding light on why United persisted in their pursuit of Ugarte despite the hurdles facing them during negotiations.
“Manchester United never sent bids for any other midfielder than Manuel Ugarte,” the Italian journalist stated on X.
“He’s always been option number 1, 2 and 3 for Man Utd as considered perfect fit for their midfield. United never left talks also bcs Ugarte informed PSG that he only wanted to play for #MUFC.”
🔴🇺🇾 Manchester United never sent bids for any other midfielder than Manuel Ugarte.
He’s always been option number 1, 2 and 3 for Man Utd as considered perfect fit for their midfield.
United never left talks also bcs Ugarte informed PSG that he only wanted to play for #MUFC. pic.twitter.com/TMv3WPJ87b
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 27, 2024
Should this claim prove true, it would a welcome sight for United fans that a player with such a deep interest in playing for the club has been signed this summer.
Still, one could also question the pragmatism of only having eyes for a single central midfielder for the entire transfer window; a transfer tactic that could have been to the club’s detriment should PSG have the knowledge that they are putting all of their eggs in one basket.
Although United may be in a celebratory mood at present, it’s important to note that Ugarte may not be a long-term solution to the Erik ten Hag’s midfield problem, as some have argued that he tends to leave space at the back as he relentlessly pursues the ball and also that he does not possess the dominant physical profile of other top holding midfielders.
Ultimately, only time will tell whether United were wise to prioritise Ugarte over other midfield talents.
Play for free to win the new United kit! We’re awarding a new prize every PL matchweek, courtesy of Goat Kits! To play, just (1) Join this week’s brand new PL Challenge league here with our league code puu1tk and enter your team. (2) Follow The Peoples Person on X and answer the tie breaker question. Full instructions and rules here.
You can also visit Goat Kits at goatkitstore.com and use discount code TPP30 to get 30% off your first purchase!
