Manuel Ugarte update 'emerges' as Sir Jim Ratcliffe eyes first Manchester United signing

Manchester United are reportedly on the brink of securing a deal for Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte.

Reports suggest that negotiations are underway for Ugarte, who appears set to make an early departure from Paris Saint-Germain following a lacklustre debut season. The 23-year-old midfielder made his move from Sporting Clube de Portugal in a £51million deal last summer, signing a five-year contract at Parc des Princes.

He was the third signing by Luis Enrique after free agents Marco Asensio and Milan Skriniar. Ugarte's transfer put an end to rumours of a Premier League move, with Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur previously showing interest. However, it is believed he has been left dissatisfied after starting just 21 of PSG's Ligue 1 matches, making 37 appearances across all competitions.

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Now, Ugarte has emerged as a prime target for United at the start of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era, which involves a revamped recruitment team run by Ineos. According to ESPN Uruguay, Ugarte is nearing a move to Old Trafford after falling out of favour in the French capital.

The Uruguay international, with 18 caps, is reported to have lost Enrique's confidence but was already feeling unsettled in Paris. It is understood that PSG will not demand the £51m they paid for him last summer, and United are prepared to negotiate a deal.

Old Trafford is reportedly the 'most probable' destination for Ugarte, despite interest from Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. United are pursuing a new centre-back and striker this summer, in light of the departures of Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial as free agents.

Discussions have been held regarding Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and Bologna's Joshua Zirkzee, as Erik ten Hag aims to strengthen his squad at both ends of the pitch. However, Ugarte could present an opportunity for the first signing under the Ineos regime, following his Copa America commitments.

Casemiro is likely to be among the players United will offload this summer after a disappointing second season. Ten Hag will be looking to replace the 32-year-old with a midfielder who can complement Kobbie Mainoo.