Feint Attack! European Cup Champion Midfielder Could Land at Dream Theater, Manchester United Plans €50 Million Bid to Outbid Juventus

Following the signings of Zirkzee and Yoro, Manchester United's next priority is midfield reinforcement, with Ugarte as the top target. The situation now is that personal terms are settled with the player, and discussions with PSG over the transfer fee are in the bargaining phase. Given Manchester United's past approach in recruitment, this stage inevitably brings various rumors.

Earlier, Italian media Tuttojuve reported that after several outstanding seasons at Real Sociedad, Zubimendi has become a key player for the team, with his talent and abilities attracting attention from clubs like Juventus and Manchester United. Zubimendi's valuation is around €50 million; Juventus's financial constraints make it difficult to compete with Manchester United, who might sign him for approximately €50 million.

Based on various media reports, Manchester United's current midfield targets are mainly four players: Ugarte, Zubimendi, João Neves, and Rabiot. Which one is most likely to join Manchester United?

João Neves is the youngest but can be ruled out first, partly because he is too expensive. PSG is currently pursuing this Portuguese young midfielder, and Benfica's asking price exceeds €70 million; if Manchester United joins the competition, it would only drive the price higher, harming both sides. Secondly, there's the issue of need. Manchester United requires a defensive midfielder with strong defensive capabilities, as Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes are not known for their defensive prowess; expecting the 19-year-old João Neves to enhance midfield toughness is unrealistic.

Rabiot can be excluded. Firstly, his age does not align with INEOS's rebuilding strategy—he will be 30 next year and would certainly demand high wages. High salary plus veteran status is precisely why Manchester United wants to offload Casemiro.

Thus, the remaining options are Zubimendi and Ugarte, each with their own advantages. Zubimendi is versatile, embodying the traits of a typical Spanish defensive midfielder—a technical defensive midfielder often compared to Rodri and Xabi Alonso. Zubimendi possesses not only excellent physical attributes but also high-level awareness, vision, and exceptional game-reading ability, making precise decisions in rapidly changing situations. He demonstrates impeccable interception and tackling skills defensively while also showing considerable attacking qualities offensively; such a midfielder is an ideal target for teams playing possession-based football. Therefore, if possible, Zubimendi would be the ideal target, potentially molded into Manchester United's "Rodri."

It is reported that Zubimendi's contract includes a €60 million release clause. However, Manchester United's hopes of acquiring this midfielder are slim, as Zubimendi has repeatedly publicly expressed his loyalty to Real Sociedad and has no intention of leaving Spain.

Hence, Ugarte is the more realistic target; PSG wants to sell, and the player wants to come. Although Ugarte's technical skills are inferior to Zubimendi's, his defensive abilities are stronger, his style is robust, and he has excellent mobility, wide defensive coverage, and top-tier mental attributes. Having such a player anchoring the midfield provides a clear barrier effect, giving teammates greater security.

Therefore, Manchester United's current rumors linking them to Zubimendi are likely aimed at lowering the price. The deal is now in its final stages, indicating PSG is also willing to compromise on their asking price; substantial positive news is expected next week, so let's wait and see!