Arsenal have held talks with one of Spain's standout performers at Euro 2024, according to a new report – and it could have repercussions for Manchester United in their pursuit of Manuel Ugarte.
Mikel Arteta's side are looking to sign a central midfielder to compliment Declan Rice this season.
Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle has been on Arsenal's radar for some time, and so to has one of Europe's most in demand players this summer, Joao Neves, who has a release clause of £105 million.
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Euro 2024 winners Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Merino and Fabio Ruiz have also been linked with a move to North London in recent weeks.
In fact, Arsenal have 'initiated discussions' with Paris Saint-Germain for Ruiz, according to The Transfers Podcast, who suggest discussions are dependent on whether the Gunners can sell one of their own midfielders.
A similar structure to the deal they had in place for goalkeeper David Raya, when he joined on an initial loan with an obligation to buy a year later, is also mentioned.
If PSG decide to part ways with Ruiz, then it could raise questions around Manchester United's move fo Manuel Ugarte and whether the Ligue 1 champions would be willing to let both midfielders leave in the same window.
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Ugarte has already agreed personal terms with United, according to Fabrizio Romano, who says the Uruguayan is keen on the move, even without Champions League football.
That being said, United may have to sell before completing a move, with Casemiro or Scott McTominay being linked with moves away in recent weeks.
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Ugarte was one of Europe's most sought-after players last summer after impressing for Sporting CP.
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A number of clubs expressed an interest in signing Ugarte, including Chelsea, but PSG are said to have offered a bigger financial package and swooped to sign the midfielder for around £51.8 million.
“I’m really happy to take this big step in my career at such a great club,” Ugarte said. “I’m going to give my all for Paris Saint-Germain.”
The anticipation around his arrival at the Parc des Princes was high but the 23-year-old has struggled to make an impact in Luis Enrique's side.
Topics: Arsenal, Euro 2024, Paris Saint-Germain
Jack Kenmare