Manuel Ugarte: Galatasaray press on with Man United raid, tempting bid prepared | OneFootball

Manuel Ugarte was arguably Manchester United’s unsung hero in the 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

Indeed, the former PSG man combined well with Casemiro, snapping into tackles high up the pitch and keeping United on the front foot, particularly in the first half, reminiscent of how Fred was once utilised.

Moreover, the Uruguayan was constantly alert off the ball, quick to press, intercept, and cover the width. Operating in his destroyer role, there were spells when Newcastle simply could not escape their own half, as Ugarte’s intensity and physical duels helped United match them man for man.

Manuel Ugarte vs Newcastle

Yet before his Boxing Day heroics, Ugarte had been struggling for game time at United, a situation that left him heavily linked with a January Old Trafford exit.

Galatasaray offer incoming

Both Nice and Galatasaray have monitored his situation, but now it is the Turkish Super Lig giants who are preparing to send a tempting bid United’s way.

Notably, Fotomac relay a report suggesting that Galatasaray are ready to test United’s resolve to hold on to the 24-year-old. They claim:

“While the English club is reportedly expecting a transfer fee exceeding €30 million, Galatasaray are said to be considering a €25 million package with a purchase option.”

Behind-the-scenes push

In addition, efforts are already underway to persuade the midfielder to favour Istanbul over rival suitors Lyon and Napoli. As Fotomac further reveal:

“Galatasaray’s legendary goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and key midfielder Lucas Torreira have intervened to convince their national team colleague Ugarte to join them.”

As a result, it remains to be seen whether that offer formally reaches United and how the club respond.

That said, it is football’s worst-kept secret that United are simultaneously pursuing an upgrade in midfield, with winter links to Ruben Neves and Conor Gallagher refusing to go away.

Ultimately, should Galatasaray and United strike a deal for the South American, INEOS would then hold the leverage to push through a midfield signing that could give United’s European ambitions a significant boost.

Feature image Stu Forster via Getty Images

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