Manchester United View Fluminense Star as Backup If Ugarte Pursuit Falters, Report Says | OneFootball

Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain appear to be working toward a transfer of Manuel Ugarte. However, the Red Devils probably have a time limit as the deadline approaches and a Plan B for a last-minute swoop.

L’Equipe reported this week that PSG and Manchester United are close to finalizing a loan deal for Ugarte, which contains a €60 million obligation to buy. The two clubs have advanced considerably in their negotiations, and the transfer could be wrapped up within the next few hours.

Still, as with any high-profile move, the transfer could fall through. Moreover, the Premier League side could look for a cheaper option than Ugarte.

Trivela reported on Friday, citing sources, that Manchester United might spend up to a third of their budget for Ugarte to sign André from Fluminense. According to the outlet, the Brazilian is reportedly considered Plan B and wouldn’t cost the €60 million the Parisians want.

Jorge Mendes, a business partner of André’s agent, Carlos Leite, has already been contacted. With his strong connections in England, he’s expected to help move the deal forward. If the Ugarte move doesn’t happen, it will be interesting to see if United will opt for André at the last minute.

Ugarte featured in 37 games for the reigning Ligue 1 champions last season, contributing three assists. The former Sporting Lisbon star started the season strongly, but his playing time decreased in the latter half as he was mainly used as a rotational player rather than a regular starter.