Paris Saint-Germain has reportedly rejected Manchester United’s offer for Manuel Ugarte. The Red Devils are reportedly looking to bring the defensive midfielder to Old Trafford to replace Casemiro, who could leave for Saudi Arabia this summer. And United may possibly put long-term PSG target Marcus Rashford in front of the French club’s eyes to persuade them to split company with Ugarte.
United are ready to rebuild their squad this summer, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe overseeing his first transfer window as a minority shareholder.
And, despite falling out of favour at PSG towards the end of last season, Ugarte appears to have the credentials to star in England.
According to L’Equipe, United made an offer for Ugarte in recent days, but it was rejected because PSG officials thought it insufficient. And, with a rival Premier League club and a German team also interested, the north-west giants may need to act quickly to complete the deal.
PSG are reportedly considering selling the 23-year-old if they can return the majority of the £51 million they paid Sporting Lisbon to sign him last summer.
However, Ratcliffe might keep his money and take advantage of PSG’s interest in Rashford.
According to a report in The Mirror earlier this year, PSG made a determined effort to recruit Rashford in 2022, offering him a deal of £400,000 per week.
And the Parisians are reportedly planning a £75 million bid for the English winger this summer in anticipation of Kylian Mbappe’s exit.
United are not actively attempting to move Rashford, but it has lately been stated that any bids above £80 million will be considered. Ratcliffe must consider whether a swap would benefit the Red Devils more.
Last season, Rashford had a horrible run of form, with only eight goals and five assists in all competitions. And the 26-year-old may be excited by the thought of starting a fresh adventure in France.
United might even ask PSG to offer money in addition to Ugarte in return for Rashford. They may reap a net profit if the Uruguayan proves to be the missing piece in Erik ten Hag’s puzzle next season.
And any extra cash would be useful as United try to bring in fresh faces while complying to profit and sustainability regulations.