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Manchester United fans have hailed the signing of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain. The Red Devils confirmed the Uruguayan's capture just hours before the transfer window closed.
Manuel Ugarte, 23, has joined in a reported £42 million plus £8.5 million in add-ons deal. He's signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford with the option of a further year.
The 22-cap Uruguay international was Manchester United's top target to bolster Erik ten Hag's midfield. He is a ball-winning machine, finishing with the most tackles in the Primera Liga in 2023 (98) and Ligue 1 in 2024 (121).
Manuel Ugarte's move to United took its time after he agreed personal terms with the Premier League giants in July. He was left out of PSG's squad for their opening games of the season amid an expected departure.
Ten Hag's midfield looked vulnerable last season, with Casemiro slightly regressing. There was a feeling a new defensive midfield signing was vital as INEOS got to grips with overseeing the club's recruitment.
Ugarte's stock grew during his time with Primera Liga side Sporting CP. He impressed with his aggression in the middle of the park before earning a £50.5 million move to PSG.
The Uruguayan slightly failed to replicate the heights of his period in Portugal while with the Parisians. He still displayed his tackling acumen and was part of Luis Enrique's side that won the Ligue 1 title.
Ugarte has sealed his move to Manchester United and is their fifth summer signing. It's been an impressive first transfer window with INEOS in charge, with Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui also arriving.
The Old Trafford faithful are thrilled to have Ugarte join the club. One fan was delighted with the timing of the announcement:
"Friday night announcement you love to see it."
Another fan made a bold claim about the Red Devils new midfield warrior:
"Best DM in the league already."
More fans gave their take on X (formerly Twitter), and one fan welcomed Ugarte to Old Trafford:
"Welcome to the biggest club in the world."
"In INEOS we trust."
One fan gave an interesting take on the transfer:
"Best signing for United so far."
"Among the very best" - Manchester United director Dan Ashworth hails Manuel Ugarte signing
Dan Ashworth has heralded the capture of Manuel Ugarte by claiming he's one of the best ball-winning midfielders in the world. The Red Devils' sporting director told club media:
"Signing Manuel was another of our primary targets for this summer. He is among the very best ball-winning midfield players in the world and has an excellent record at both club and international level. His qualities, experience and passion will be a great complement to our strong group of midfielders."
Ugarte is the aggressive midfield profile Manchester United have perhaps been lacking in recent years. His personality may go down well with fans, and he joins a growing pool of passionate players, such as Lisandro Martinez, at Old Trafford.
