Manchester United’s Midfield Conundrum: The Deals That Got Away
Manchester United are finally set to sign Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte, with the 23-year-old midfielder expected to join the Red Devils for an initial £42.2 million. However, it’s a deal that almost didn’t happen. According to reports, United had two other midfield targets in their sights before negotiations with PSG stalled.
Those targets were Dutch duo Jerdy Schouten and Teun Koopmeiners. Schouten, who impressed for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, was reportedly a fan favorite among the Manchester United faithful. Erik ten Hag, the club’s manager, is said to have been a big admirer of his fellow countryman and would have pushed for a deal if negotiations for Ugarte had broken down.
Meanwhile, Koopmeiners has just joined Juventus from Atalanta for £46 million. It’s a significant outlay for the Italian giants, and one that could have benefited United’s midfield. With Casemiro’s form dipping and Mason Mount struggling for game time, the addition of a midfielder like Koopmeiners could have been a shrewd move.
United’s midfield has been a major area of concern this season. The emergence of teenager Kobbie Mainoo has been a bright spark, but the team’s inability to create chances and sustain pressure has been a major issue. The addition of Ugarte, while a positive step, may not be enough to solve all of United’s midfield woes.
The Red Devils are still hopeful of resolving Jadon Sancho’s future before the transfer window slams shut on Friday evening. Juventus and Chelsea are vying for the winger’s signature, with Sancho failing to make the squad for games against Fulham and Brighton.
It’s been a turbulent transfer window for Manchester United, but with Ugarte finally set to join the club, the focus can now turn to resolving Sancho’s future and preparing for the new season. Will they be able to get their man? Only time will tell.
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