Manchester United are inching closer to securing some much-needed midfielder recruitment but the challenge of offloading another star could cause problems
What next for Ten Hag after keeping Man Utd job
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has insisted that Manchester United’s problems will not be solved in one summer transfer window given their sheer volume but a successful window will be paramount if the Red Devils are to return to their former formidable reputation.
United remain in the hunt for a centre-forward to help carry the goalscoring responsibility shouldered by Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund, while the stand-off with Everton for defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains ongoing.
Erik ten Hag’s side look to be closing in on a midfield reinforcement, though a potential wrinkle in the plans could scupper everything. The Mirror walks you through the latest transfer news.
United ‘close’ to landing £50m star
United need a new midfielder, particularly with Casemiro set to depart, and according to ESPN are close to agreeing a deal for PSG star Manuel Ugarte.
The Uruguay international only signed for the French giants last summer but already looks to be on his way out. Ugarte started just 21 of PSG’s 34 league games last season and it seems the club are already ready to cash in on a player they spent £51m on last year. A bid of £50m would be enough to lure the talented youngster away.
Casemiro’s complicated £25m pay-off
While United’s move for Ugarte is reportedly close, reports have suggested that the deal could be scuppered if United can’t offload Casemiro – a reality that is proving increasingly more difficult.
It’s claimed Casemiro is demanding a £30m pay-off this summer, a fee United are unwilling to pay given the need to operate within PSR regulations.
Casemiro’s representatives are meeting Ten Hag next week to discuss Casemiro’s future. A cut-price is believed to be a non-starter, leaving United potentially needing to cough up a staggering £25m.
The former Real Madrid star is said to be the highest-paid player at the club, ahead of Marcus Rashford, with a bumper £290,000-a-week contract.
Varane set for shock move upon contract expiry
Raphael Varane reportedly travelled to Italian side Como on Saturday to discuss a shock move to the Serie A side this summer.
The Frenchman becomes a free agent on Monday upon the expiration of his United contract, alongside Brandon Williams, Jonny Evans and Anthony Martial.
Inter Miami and several Saudi Pro League clubs have shown interest in Varane, but Como are leading the race to secure the veteran defender’s services.
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