Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are standing firm on their £51 million valuation of midfielder Manuel Ugarte, with ongoing negotiations with Manchester United now reaching a critical point, according to the Mirror.
Ugarte joined PSG just last summer but has since fallen out of favor with manager Luis Enrique.
The French club is now willing to let him leave, with Manchester United emerging as the leading contenders after pursuing the Uruguayan throughout the summer.
United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly a big admirer of Ugarte and is keen to strengthen his midfield options.
Due to the ongoing speculation regarding his future, Ugarte was left out of PSG’s squad for their season opener against Le Havre.
United have made an offer in the region of £42 million for the 23-year-old, which falls short of PSG’s asking price.
With only nine days left in the transfer window, time is running out for both clubs to find a resolution.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, United have been offered Ugarte on a loan deal with an obligation to buy for £51 million.
However, United are hesitant, as they currently value the midfielder at £9 million less than PSG’s asking price.
PSG are willing to proceed with the deal but are adamant about receiving the full amount they paid to sign Ugarte from Sporting Lisbon last summer.
Ugarte made 37 appearances across all competitions for PSG last season but is unlikely to see significant game time this term, with Enrique favoring other options.
Meanwhile, United are still attempting to offload Scott McTominay, with Manuel Ugarte considered a potential replacement for the Scotland international.
This standoff over Ugarte comes as Ten Hag has made a surprising U-turn regarding the future of Casemiro.
After a challenging second season, the veteran midfielder appeared to be on his way out of Old Trafford.
Despite previous links to a move to the Saudi Pro League, Casemiro impressed during pre-season and has since regained his place in Ten Hag’s plans.
The two have mended their relationship, which had deteriorated during United’s disappointing campaign last year.
Casemiro has started both of United’s matches this season, featuring in the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City and the Premier League win over Fulham.
Though there remains a possibility that Ugarte could join United before the transfer window closes next Friday, it seems unlikely he will be available for Saturday’s trip to Brighton.
For now, Casemiro is expected to continue partnering with Kobbie Mainoo in United’s midfield.
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