Last season, the 23-year-old was a regular player for PSG, but there was a consistent sense that both the club and specifically Luis Enrique were not entirely satisfied with the acquisition.
In May 2023, Aston Villa expressed a strong interest in the player and it was reported that the Birmingham club was unwilling to pay more than €40-50 million.
About a month later, PSG entered negotiations with Sporting and eventually paid the €60 million release clause for the Uruguayan.
Earlier today, a report from France suggested that PSG does not want to take a loss on that €60 million investment and could even demand €70 million.
Meanwhile, Manchester United were interested in a loan deal, with those high figures potentially serving as an option that could be negotiated down.
Florian Plettenberg reports that Manchester United are currently ‘leading the race’ for Ugarte, which is not a new development. The Red Devils are believed to have the best chance of signing him, and the player is eager to make the move.
However, Plettenberg also notes that PSG wants €70 million for Ugarte, a figure that is unlikely to be met.
An interesting twist in this situation is that Ugarte is represented by Gestifute, the agency run by Jorge Mendes. Joao Neves, who is expected to join PSG from Benfica for €70 million, is also represented by Mendes’ agency, suggesting a possible attempt to balance the financials.
While Mendes’ influence is growing at the Ligue 1 club, this should not concern Manchester United, and they should avoid overpaying for Ugarte.
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