Manchester United's search for solutions continues on and off the pitch, with the club linked to a major new attacking target while a midfield departure is being lined up for the January window.
United Identify French Forward as Summer Priority
Following a disappointing 2-2 draw with Burnley in new interim boss Darren Fletcher's first game, the club's recruitment plans are pressing ahead. According to reports, United are among the clubs seriously considering a move for Paris Saint-Germain's French forward Bradley Barcola.
The 23-year-old, who won the Champions League with PSG last season, could become a 'real topic' for a transfer at the end of the current campaign. French publication L'Equipe suggests his future is uncertain, with the Ligue 1 giants already eyeing a potential replacement in the form of Yan Diomande.
However, any deal for Barcola will not come cheap. A report from TEAMtalk indicates that United face competition from rivals Liverpool and would need to pay a staggering £87 million to secure his signature. Intriguingly, there is also speculation that Marcus Rashford could potentially be involved in any deal, especially if his expected move to Barcelona does not become permanent.
Midfielder's Loan Exit Gains Momentum
While planning a big summer arrival, United are also working on a January exit. Dutch outlet VI reports that Ajax have identified midfielder Manuel Ugarte as a serious target for a loan move this month.
The Uruguayan international, who started the draw at Turf Moor alongside Casemiro, is said to be open to a switch to Amsterdam after struggling to adapt to the Premier League since his arrival. The proposed deal would see him join the Eredivisie side for the remainder of the season.
A significant hurdle remains, however. Ugarte's substantial salary, reported to be around £120,000 per week, is a problem for Ajax. Negotiations would likely require Manchester United to compromise and cover a portion of his wages to facilitate the temporary transfer.
Managerial Uncertainty Continues at Old Trafford
These transfer developments unfold against a backdrop of ongoing instability in the dugout. The search for a permanent successor to the sacked Ruben Amorim is underway, but an interim appointment must first be finalised for the rest of the season.
It is unclear if Darren Fletcher will remain in charge for Sunday's FA Cup clash with Brighton, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick held further talks on Wednesday regarding taking the reins temporarily. The club's immediate focus is on securing a top-four finish, a task made harder by the midweek draw which left their Champions League qualification hopes in the balance.
