Manchester United abandon pursuit of midfielder after failing to agree on asking price

It wouldn’t be a Manchester United transfer window without some late twists and turns, even this summer when everything has seemed smooth and steady up until now.

So far, United have signed four players, and it’s widely expected that their next addition will be a defensive midfielder. Manuel Ugarte is a top target, though alternatives like Sander Berge have already moved elsewhere, and Sofyan Amrabat is still waiting in Italy to fulfill his Manchester United dream.

Reports indicate that United have made a final decision on their pursuit of one player. The financial implications of signing four players have complicated their bid for Ugarte, causing the transfer to drag on. Although personal terms with Ugarte have been agreed upon, the stumbling block remains Paris Saint-Germain’s asking price.

Ugarte is such a priority that United are exploring creative solutions to finalize the deal, including a potential loan-with-obligation-to-buy arrangement. This special treatment reportedly indicates that Ugarte is United’s first-choice midfielder target.

According to Corriere dello Sport, United have informed Fiorentina that they will end their pursuit of Sofyan Amrabat. Fiorentina’s €15 million asking price is deemed excessive by United, who had a buy option in Amrabat’s loan deal from last summer but chose not to exercise it due to his inconsistent performances. Amrabat has returned to Fiorentina, but United’s preference for Ugarte over Amrabat is clear.

While Amrabat’s performances at United were less than stellar, it’s worth noting that the entire midfield struggled last season. Under a more secure system this year, Casemiro has looked rejuvenated, and the team is more solid overall. Amrabat’s strong desire to return to United might help his case, as the club seeks players genuinely committed to playing for them.

That said, United’s current stance on Fiorentina’s asking price is understandable, especially if Scott McTominay’s move to Napoli falls through. If Fiorentina becomes desperate to offload Amrabat and he pushes for the move, the deal might stretch into the final hours of deadline day.