Manuel Ugarte lets slip Man United's three secret agents who convinced him to sign

Manuel Ugarte
-Credit: (Image: Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images.)


Manuel Ugarte has opened up about his decision to sign for Manchester United this summer.

And the former PSG star has credited conversations with Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez, as well as the recently departed Facundo Pellistri, as influential in his move.

Erik ten Hag secured Ugarte as his fifth summer acquisition, following signings such as Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee and Noussair Mazraoui, highlighting the need for a new midfielder. The transfer process was not without its complications, though, with negotiations prolonging the deal before finalising an agreement worth £42.2million, with the fee potentially increasing to £50.7m.

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Ugarte revealed that personal terms were smoothly agreed upon, possibly due to the advice he received from his fellow Uruguayan and Red Devils colleagues.

"Before coming here I spoke a lot with Bruno and Licha (Lisandro). I also spoke a lot with Facu Pellistri," Ugarte shared with the club's media team. "I'm really looking forward to it, but I also realise that this is a big responsibility and I'm ready for it."

The enthusiasm of the fans has not gone unnoticed by Ugarte, who has been overwhelmed by their support since rumours of his transfer first surfaced. He acknowledges the supporters' desire for success and is eager to help the club secure more silverware, reports the Mirror.

Manuel Ugarte
The Uruguyuan started in United's 7-0 win over Barnsley on Tuesday (September 17) -Credit:Getty

In discussing his motivations for joining United, Ugarte pointed to the club's storied past and the influence of his peers: "Well, first and foremost, it's history because we all know what a massive club United is," he explained. "I also spoke a lot with Facu Pellistri.

"He told me everything, that the atmosphere that's generated the match day at Old Trafford is incredible. Being a part of where so many football legends have played."

Ugarte also had conversations with several United players, including Fernandes and Martinez, before making the move. "I've also spoken with some players. With Bruno and Licha. We have chatted a lot. So yes, I'm really excited and more than anything very eager. I obviously know it's a great responsibility and I'm ready for it."

After missing the Liverpool match, Ugarte made his United debut in a 3-0 win over Southampton. His first start came in the League Cup, where he partnered Casemiro in midfield and impressed with a composed display in a 7-0 win against Barnsley.

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