Ugarte’s Manchester United Transfer: A Missed Opportunity?

On the last day of the summer transfer window, the announcement of Manuel Ugarte‘s move to Manchester United for a fee of €60 million from Paris Saint-Germain sent shockwaves through the football world. However, journalist Julien Laurens criticized the Red Devils for their mishandling of the situation. Here’s a closer look at what transpired.

Ugarte’s rapid departure from PSG

Just one year after joining PSG, Manuel Ugarte (23 years old) is leaving the French capital. According to journalist Duncan Castles, the midfielder was dissatisfied with his performance in Paris and faced exclusion from the squad by his former coach Luis Enrique this summer. His transfer to Manchester was finalized in the closing hours of the transfer window last Friday.

Missed opportunities and delayed negotiations

Manchester United secured the services of the Uruguayan midfielder for €50 million plus €10 million in add-ons, but their slow negotiation process has raised eyebrows. “The issue with Ugarte is that United has wanted him since July. They identified him as their target. From the beginning, they knew PSG would ask for €50 million plus €10 million in bonuses. That was PSG’s stance from day one. ‘If you want him, that’s what you need to put on the table, otherwise, you won’t get him,’” explained Julien Laurens.

Frustration over United’s strategy

The ESPN journalist expressed his frustration during a segment on RMC. “United’s initial offer was €35 million. At some point, it becomes ridiculous; it’s simply not feasible. They waited and finally proposed €50 million plus €10 million, and they secured the deal on August 30, even though they could have had him on July 15 for the same price, allowing him to participate in the summer preparations,” he concluded.