Man Utd devise new 'formula' to sign Manuel Ugarte

Manchester United are now hoping to sign Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte on loan with an obligation to buy, according to a report.

The Red Devils are hoping to sign a new central midfielder before the end of the transfer window, and Ugarte is their priority target.

Talks between United and PSG have not advanced in recent weeks due to the French champions' refusal to budge from their €60m (£51m) asking price.

According to Fabrizio Romano, United are hoping to try a different 'formula' in order to bring in Ugarte without paying that sum this summer.

United's plan is now to sign Ugarte on an initial loan, but one which includes an obligatory purchase clause. Talks are being led by agent Jorge Mendes, while Ugarte agreed personal terms over a move to Old Trafford back in July.

French outlet L'Equipe first reported at the start of August that PSG would consider loaning out Ugarte following the arrival of midfielder Joao Neves from Benfica, but only if they receive a large fee up front plus a 'high purchase offer'.

Though United have made four major signings so far this window, they have not yet strengthened their midfield options. Striker Joshua Zirkzee was the first through the door, while defenders Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui have since signed for the Red Devils.

United made a winning start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a late 1-0 victory at home to Fulham on Friday, with Zirkzee coming off the bench to score the game's only goal.

PSG, meanwhile, started the Ligue 1 season with a 4-1 win at Le Havre, but required three goals beyond the 85th minute in order to take the three points. Ugarte was not named in the matchday squad.

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