Manchester Utd have agreed deal to sign 25yo star with 7.2 recoveries/game after ending Ugarte interest – Sir Jimcliffe wants to close the deal before the league starts

In preparation for the upcoming Premier League season, Manchester United is expected to expedite their hunt for a defensive midfielder this summer.

Manuel Ugarte of Paris Saint-Germain appeared to be the team’s top priority last month, but it was revealed yesterday that the team will not make a formal proposal for him.

The £51.5 million price tag is not something the Red Devils intend to pay. They’re willing to consider other options to strengthen their holding midfield group.

We believe the team ought to make an attempt to sign Monaco’s great player Youssouf Fofana, whose contract expires in the summer of next year, and who is largely expected to be sold.

The Frenchman has reportedly been identified as one of United’s backup options, and it’s been said that he might be had for about £30 million.

Earlier this summer, AC Milan and the midfield player agreed on personal terms; but, Monaco’s decision to increase the valuation delayed their ability to finalise a transaction.

United and Atletico were cited as the causes. Given that Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher is expected to sign with Atletico, the Red Devils may have a clear shot at signing him.

Fofana, if signed for a reasonable price, would be a good addition.
Premier League teams have their eye on the former Strasbourg player over the previous summer. He was approached by Fulham and Nottingham Forest to sign, but he chose to stay at Monaco.

He’s going to select a new club during this transfer window. Fofana’s strong defensive abilities and hard work ethic in midfield make him a valuable addition for United.

In Ligue 1 last season, the 25-year-old recorded 7.2 recoveries and 1.9 tackles per game, winning 50% of his duels. Additionally, he finished 60% of the takeaways for Monaco.

Fofana’s passing accuracy is only 82 percent, which puts him below Ugarte (91 percent), but he makes up for it with his ability to move the ball fast when it’s out of possession.

Though he is not as strong as Ugarte, who is a superior distributor and tackler, the Frenchman is still a solid upgrade over Casemiro.