Man Utd drop interest in two players as priority target becomes clear

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 20 Jul 2024 19:16 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are unlikely to pursue moves from Adrian Rabiot or Xavi Simons this window, according to reports.

The Telegraph's correspondent James Dunker has stated that though the Premier League giants hold a great deal of admiration for both players, neither is a likely acquisition for the club this summer.

The reporter tweeted that the Red Devils had closely monitored Paris Saint Germain's Simons for an extended period last summer, but no deal came to fruition.

It was well reported that Rabiot was a figure of interest from Man Utd too, but again, no move substantiated.

With both players unlikely to be brought to Old Trafford, it's looking more likely that Man Utd will make an attempt to sign PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

The 23-year-old - whose FootballTransfers’ Estimated Transfer Value algorithm (ETV) ranks at €41.4M -was acquired by the French champions for €60 million last summer.

Man Utd could push on for move for Manuel Ugarte

PSG sources informed us that they value the player at €70m, given his young age and the fact his contract isn’t up at the Parc Des Princes until June 2028.

As well as Man Utd, clubs in Italy and Spain are thought to be keen, as well as another in the Premier League.

Current ETV

Manuel Ugarte

M, DM (C)

PSG

Manuel Ugarte

M, DM (C)

PSG

€41.4M

ETV Range

€31.1M - €51.8M

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We are told that PSG are open to negotiations for Ugarte but would only do so as a sale or a loan with an obligation to buy, rather than a straightforward loan.

Ugarte has already verbally agreed terms with Man Utd and is eager to join up at Old Trafford. Recruitment chiefs at the side have admired the player since his days at Sporting CP when Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle also expressed an interest in the player.