Manchester United completed the signing of Manuel Ugarte for €50m (£42m) plus €10m in bonuses from Paris Saint-Germain on Friday evening, with the Uruguayan promising to “fight for trophies” and help return the club to elite level.
The 23-year-old signed a five-year contract with the option of a further 12 months. He is Erik ten Hag’s fifth major acquisition of the window and gives the manager a second senior No 6, alongside Casemiro.
Ugarte said: “It is an incredible feeling to join a club of this magnitude – one that is admired all around the world. The project that the football leadership discussed with me is extremely exciting. Manchester United is an ambitious club and I am an ambitious player.
“I know how incredible United fans are and I cannot wait to experience Old Trafford. I’m someone who is so determined to succeed. I will sacrifice and give everything for my teammates. Together we will fight to win trophies and reach the level where this club needs to be.”
Dan Ashworth, United’s sporting director, said: “Signing Manuel was another of our primary targets for this summer. He is among the very best ball-winning midfield players in the world and has an excellent record at both club and international level. His qualities, experience and passion will be a great complement to our strong group of midfielders. We are excited to see the positive impact he will make on the pitch and in the dressing room as we continue to strive for success.”
Last season the Uruguayan claimed the league and cup double with Paris Saint-Germain and featured in every game at the Copa América, being selected in the team of the tournament. With Casemiro now 32, Ugarte is expected to be first choice under Ten Hag. He is similar in style to the Brazilian with an ability to stymie opposition attacks. Since the start of the 2022-23 season Ugarte has averaged the second highest number of tackles per 90 minutes of Europe’s five major leagues.
Scott McTominay €30m transfer to Napoli was also completedon Friday, ending a 22-year association with the club. The midfielder made his United debut in 2017, made 253 appearances, scoring 29 goals, and won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
He said: “I’ve absolutely loved it and I’m very grateful for the football club and I’m ready for a new challenge and to go take it by storm. I want to see Manchester United win. Thank you for having me and I have enjoyed every minute.”
