Man Utd are ‘considering’ surprise move for Championship player who Jose Mourinho wants after pulling plug on Manuel Ugarte deal

Manchester United are pursuing other midfield targets after they decided against meeting Paris Saint-Germain's valuation for Manuel Ugarte – and a surprise name has emerged on their list of options.

For the past few weeks, United have been exploring a deal to sign Uruguay international Ugarte, who was one of Europe's most sought-after players last summer after impressing for Sporting CP.

After making 42 appearances in all competitions for club and country in 23/24, PSG were said to be open to negotiations for the player this summer but it seems their valuation is too high at present.

A report from The Athletic suggests their asking price for Ugarte is around the €60 million (£51.4m) mark.

With no progress being made regarding the fee, United are now looking elsewhere, with one of the players mentioned being Burnley midfielder Sander Berge.

Berge, a Norway international, has emerged as a surprise target, according to a seperate report from The Athletic, who suggest club officials at Old Trafford have made contact with his camp regarding a potential move.

The 26-year-old midfielder was one of Burnley's standout performers in the Premier League last season, ranking among their statistical leaders in dribbles, touches and pressured pass accuracy.

And as well being competent technically, Berge was one of the fastest players in England's top flight in 23/24 having hit an impressive top speed of 35.90km/h.

Sander Berge - Last 25 Actions under Pressure pic.twitter.com/JPPuktakph

— Jack Fawcett (@JackFawcett1704) August 6, 2024

Burnley signed Berge from Sheffield United for around £12 million last summer, three years after he joined the Blades from Genk for a club-record £22 million fee.

"He's an intelligent footballer, with a great eye for a pass and the ability to run with the ball," said then-Burnley boss Vincent Kompany. "He also has a strength and physicality that will be invaluable in the Premier League."

Berge, who is also being tracked by Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce, came through the youth ranks at Norwegian lower league side Asker before earning a move to Valerenga in 2015. He would then join Belgian outfit Genk in 2017.

As well as Berge, United have included three players in their list of possible alternatives to Ugarte, according to Duncan Castles.

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who impressed for Spain in their Euro 2024-winning campaign, is at the top of list, whilst Joey Veerman and Adrien Rabiot also feature.