Man Utd Transfer News Today: De Ligt KEEN, Branthwaite deal NOT DEAD, Zirkzee OPTIMISM

Bence Bocsák

• Updated: 29 Jun 2024 20:17 BST
• 4 min read

Manchester United’s transfer window was slow to start but is gradually beginning to build some momentum. The likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee are both in the spotlight as the club looks to ramp up its recruitment.

One of Manchester United’s priorities remains signing a holding midfielder this summer.

Erik ten Haag’s side lacked solidity in the middle of the park for much of last season and the club knows this is one area that they will have to fix this summer.

According to Sky Sports, Manchester United are continuing to hold talks with PSG over the signing of Manuel Ugarte, who the club believes could be the solution to Ten Hag’s midfield problems.

Ugarte only arrived at Paris Saint Germain last summer but he hasn’t quite settled in France. It is understood PSG would be open to selling the Uruguayan international for the right price.

Another option for the Red Devils could be Amadou Onana of Everton. However, if they want a proper replacement for Casemiro, they ought to keep pursuing Ugarte.

READ MORE: Greenwood to Marseille – what we know so far

De Ligt keen on Man Utd

Fabrizio Romano and Sky Germany report that Man Utd have contacted Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt over a potential transfer. The response the Red Devils received was positive, with the player's camp indicating that the centre-back would be open to a move.

Bayern are willing to sell the Dutchman after signing Hiroki Ito and due to being in talks with Bayer Leverkusen and Germany star Jonathan Tah. De Ligt has no intention of becoming the fourth or fifth-choice centre-back in Munich.

A potential problem could be the fee, with Man Utd not prepared to break the bank for the former Ajax man as they continue to operate on a restricted budget.

Despite the pursuit of De Ligt, Man Utd's interest in Jarrad Branthwaite has not cooled, according to Romano. On the contrary, the Everton starlet remains a top target, but the Red Devils have not changed their stance that they won't be held to ransom by the Toffees.

Joshua Zirkzee Optimism for Manchester United

Manchester United are 'cautiously optimistic' over their prospects of completing a deal for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Sky Sports.

They are still locked in talks with the agents of the Netherlands striker.

Adding a striker to the club is another key priority for Ten Hag and Zirkzee who has enjoyed a fruitful campaign leading Bologna to the Champions League is seen as an ideal target.

Only 23 years old, he has years of experience playing in top leagues in Europe, and made 15 goal contributions in 34 matches for Bologna last season.

His Italian club are believed to be reluctant to sell one of their prized assets. Especially with Riccardo Calafiori also looking likely to leave Bologna. However, for the right price Manchester United could definitely secure a deal for the forward who is currently on international duty competing for the Netherlands at Euro 2024.

READ MORE: Romano drops Man Utd bomb: Huge deal to be completed 'today or tomorrow'

Manchester United goalkeeper released

Manchester United have announced on the club's official platforms that the club's women goalkeeper, Mary Earps, has left the club.

Earps is an England international and has been at United for five years. She has won the FA Cup with the club and also lifted the European Championship trophy with England back in 2022 at international level.

She is expected to join Paris Saint Germain.