4-years deal signed: Man United agree personal terms with the player Gaurdiorla admitted his players are so scared to play against

Manchester United’s quest for a defensive midfielder has taken a new turn, as they shift their focus away from Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte due to his hefty £51.5 million price tag. Instead, the Red Devils are exploring alternative options to bolster their holding midfield department, with Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana emerging as a prime target.

Fofana, a 25-year-old Frenchman, has been identified as a viable choice for United, and his potential availability for around £30 million makes him an attractive prospect. AC Milan had previously agreed personal terms with the midfielder, but Monaco’s increased valuation led to a breakdown in negotiations. With Atletico Madrid set to sign Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher, United may have a clear path to signing Fofana.

The former Strasbourg man boasts impressive defensive skills and a tireless work rate, winning 50% of his duels in Ligue 1 last season, with 7.2 recoveries and 1.9 tackles per game. While his passing accuracy lags behind Ugarte’s at 82%, Fofana’s ability to quickly cover ground when out of possession makes him a valuable asset.

Although Fofana may not possess the same strengths as Ugarte, he would be a solid signing for United, offering an upgrade on Casemiro. With his contract expiring next summer, Monaco is likely to sell, making Fofana a prime target for the Red Devils as they seek to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new Premier League season.Manchester United’s pursuit of a defensive midfielder has led them to reconsider their options, moving away from Manuel Ugarte of Paris Saint-Germain due to his £51.5 million price tag. Instead, they are eyeing Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana, who is available for around £30 million. Fofana, a 25-year-old French international, is known for his defensive capabilities and work rate, winning 50% of his duels in Ligue 1 last season, with 7.2 recoveries and 1.9 tackles per game.

Despite his passing accuracy being slightly lower at 82%, Fofana’s ability to cover ground quickly and his potential availability at a more reasonable price make him an attractive option. With AC Milan previously agreeing on personal terms but failing to secure a deal due to Monaco’s valuation, and Atletico Madrid set to sign Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher, United might have a clearer path to signing Fofana. His contract expiring next summer further increases the likelihood of a transfer. Fofana could be a valuable addition to United’s midfield, providing a solid upgrade and reinforcing their squad ahead of the new Premier League season.