Man United edge closer to deal for midfielder

Debutant Joshua Zirkzee’s late goal earned Manchester United an important victory over Fulham on Friday evening. 

The Premier League returned as United welcomed the Cottagers to Old Trafford, but it looked like Erik ten Hag’s side were going to have to settle for a point until substitute Zirkzee’s late goal.

The Dutchman, who joined the Red Devils from Italian side Bologna earlier this summer, latched onto Alejandro Garnacho’s cross to fire home from close range.

Now, it appears that the Manchester side are closing in on another summer signing.

As per Football Insider, United are set to step up their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte this week.

The Uruguay international has been one of United’s top targets as they look to add a central midfielder to Ten Hag’s squad, and the player himself is believed to be keen on the idea of a move to Old Trafford.

Ugarte (left) is a target for Manchester United

The 23-year-old has been told by manager Luis Enrique that he is not part of his plans for the new season, meaning that he is free to leave for the right price.

Ugarte joined PSG from Portuguese side Sporting CP last summer and made 37 appearances for the French giants across all competitions last term.

He is contracted to PSG until the end of the 202728 campaign, but it appears increasingly likely that he could leave the French capital before the end of the current transfer window.

Ten Hag is said to be keen to add a defensive midfielder to his squad before the window shuts at the end of the month, primarily to act as a replacement for the ageing Casemiro.

The Brazilian endured a difficult campaign last season, and Ten Hag is therefore keen to add to his options at the base of midfield.