United target third midfielder if Ugarte sale funds Mateus Fernandes pursuit

Manchester United are willing to sanction the sale of Manuel Ugarte this summer and would use the proceeds to fund a third midfield signing, according to reports, as the club simultaneously race Tottenham to sign West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes before the end of June.

United are currently working on a deal for a second midfielder, after which attention is expected to shift to other areas of the squad — including a left-sided player. But if sufficient interest emerges for Ugarte, the club will return to the transfer market for a further midfield addition.

The 25-year-old Uruguayan, signed from Paris Saint-Germain for £50.5 million two summers ago, still carries a book value of around £30 million with three years remaining on his contract, meaning United would be forced to accept a financial loss on the deal. Ugarte’s World Cup performances have not strengthened his hand, though clubs in Europe continue to hold him in regard. Should he depart, United are likely to target a squad-level replacement, with Sander Berge among the names on their midfield shortlist. Championship pair Shea Charles and Hayden Hackney were also considered but both appear set to move elsewhere.

The more pressing question is whether United can secure Fernandes ahead of Tottenham. The 21-year-old is currently United’s top midfield target, and movement on his future is expected before the end of June given West Ham’s financial pressures around the financial year-end deadline. Tottenham are reported to be willing to meet West Ham’s £80 million asking price, but United have not yet conceded the chase. Both clubs have explored the terms of a deal without committing funds, and that could change within days.

Elsewhere, Casemiro officially departs United on Wednesday, bringing a prolonged farewell to a close. The Brazilian made 160 appearances for the club after joining from Real Madrid and leaves with the affection of supporters intact. United released a farewell film in his final week, showing the midfielder and his wife visibly emotional at the prospect of leaving.

There was also reported bemusement inside the club this week when Barcelona were linked with a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, given the strained relationship between United and the Catalan club following the Marcus Rashford transfer saga earlier this year.