Man Utd must sell Casemiro to purchase Ugarte

Manchester United may need to sell midfielder Casemiro to purchase Paris Saint-Germain star Manuel Ugarte this summer, according to the Guardian.

The Red Devils are in the transfer market for a new defensive midfielder. Ugarte has recently emerged as a top target, but the club are yet to make an official bid.

However, the move could depend on Casemiro’s exit. PSG value the Uruguay international at £38 million. A loan deal for the 23-year-old could also be an option.

Man Utd more likely to sign Ugarte on loan

Casemiro had a brilliant debut season with United, standing out with his offensive and defensive contributions. However, he struggled to find the same consistency last term.

The Brazilian was guilty of losing possession in the opposition half. He was also caught out of position many times and was dribbled past more than two occasions per league game.

United would ideally like to replace him with a marquee signing, but transfer funds are limited.

Casemiro, who was hailed as a ‘massive‘ player by manager Erik ten Hag in May 2023, has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

However, no genuine proposals are on the table, according to Fabrizio Romano.

United seem unlikely to get his huge salary off their wage bill and may have to consider a loan approach for Ugarte, who appears open to joining the club this summer.

Ugarte has a high work rate in the number six position and has the knack for making recoveries when dispossessed. He would be a quality acquisition for the club.

PSG could open the door for an initial loan deal with an option to buy if they secure the signing of Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves in the coming days.

Neves, who has also been on United’s radar, has given the green light to join the French champions.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.