Romano confirms fifth ‘dream’ signing as Red Devils turn to Nottingham Forest alternative

Manuel Ugarte remains the Manchester United midfielder’s dream target this summer as a report reveals a Nottingham Forest star has emerged as an alternative.

United have already spent around £90m to sign Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro from Bologna and Lille respectively, and are closing in on their third and fourth signings as Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are both close to moves from Bayern Munich for around £60m.

The Red Devils are now expected to turn their attention to midfield and a new partner for academy star Kobbie Mainoo.

Paris Saint-Germain ace Manuel Ugarte was their top target at the start of the window but the Ligue 1 club’s £51m asking price for the Uruguayan has led United to abandon negotiations and consider alternative targets.

Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana and Burnley’s Sander Berge are among the many names linked, with Berge keen on a move to Old Trafford, while Fofana reportedly only has eyes for AC Milan having agreed personal terms with the Serie A giants.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that after completing the deal for De Ligt and Mazraoui, United will remain busy in the transfer market, with midfield a priority.

And although the Red Devils have held talks about alternatives, Romano confirms that Ugarte remains his “dream target” this summer.

Romano said: “Yes, there will be movement, for sure, Manchester United are not ready. These two signings (Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui) were really important, especially after the injuries they suffered in these first weeks of the new season.

“Then also the conditions of Malacia and Luke Shaw, who are often injured. So that’s why Manchester United decided to go very strong as soon as possible on these two signings, but they will continue.

“Something in midfield is also expected. The main target, the dream target, remains Manuel Ugarte, who is considered perfect internally. But here the main issue is the price.”

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United will have to sell players to fund Ugarte’s transfer and are said to be willing to listen to offers for some of their first-team stars after Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s £15million move to West Ham was confirmed.

If they fail to find buyers for the departed player, they will be forced to consider other options and while Sofyan Amrabat could return after his loan spell last season, GIVE ME SPORT United are also said to be eyeing Forest star Danilo.

The report claims that the Brazilian’s profile is “highly appreciated” by United’s scouts.

Danilo joined Forest from Palmeiras for £17m in January 2023 and has made 49 appearances, scoring six goals and providing four assists.