Erik ten Hag should have sign him instead. Manuel Ugarte is a bad business. He is not the type of player that will help Manchester United. We need player like Rodri and this boy can do it for us”-Paul Scholes names the player Manchester United should have signed who plays like Rodri instead of Manuel Ugarte

Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte to bolster their central midfield options. However, Old Trafford legend Paul Scholes believes his former club should have considered signing a different player instead.

United started their Premier League season on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over Fulham, courtesy of a late goal by substitute Joshua Zirkzee. Zirkzee is one of four new signings this summer, arriving from Bologna for a reported fee of £36.5 million. Additionally, defender Leny Yoro joined from Lille for over £50 million, although he’s currently sidelined due to injury. Bayern Munich’s defensive duo, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, also made their debuts in the win against Fulham alongside Zirkzee.

With the summer transfer window set to close on August 30, United are expected to continue their business and are keen on signing a No. 6. Manuel Ugarte has emerged as a prime target, with a potential loan deal for this season and an obligation to buy next summer being discussed. Ugarte, who is 23 years old, fits United’s profile for new recruits, having made 37 appearances for PSG last season after moving from Sporting Lisbon.

Despite Ugarte’s potential arrival, Paul Scholes has suggested that United should have pursued former Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan. After a brief stint with Barcelona, Gundogan returned to Manchester City this summer. Scholes also mentioned Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as an alternative option, though the Spanish midfielder declined a move to Liverpool earlier this summer.

Speaking on *The Overlap*, Scholes said: “I think that’s the type of player they need – a Zubimendi or – I’m gonna say – Gundogan.” He emphasized the need for a controlling midfielder to manage the game’s tempo and provide stability in United’s midfield.Paul Scholes’ suggestion for Manchester United to target a player like Ilkay Gundogan or Martin Zubimendi reflects his concerns about the club’s need for a controlling presence in midfield. While Manuel Ugarte is a strong defensive midfielder with the ability to break up play and cover ground, Scholes seems to believe that United also need someone who can dictate the tempo and provide a calming influence in the middle of the park.

Gundogan, known for his intelligence, passing range, and leadership, would have brought a wealth of experience and composure to United’s midfield. His recent return to Manchester City after a brief stint at Barcelona makes it clear that he remains highly valued. On the other hand, Zubimendi, with his ability to control the game from deep, could have been a solid long-term option, although his decision to stay at Real Sociedad shows his commitment to his current club.

As the transfer window nears its end, United’s pursuit of Ugarte highlights their intent to strengthen the defensive aspects of their midfield. However, Scholes’ comments suggest that a more versatile or creative option might have better addressed United’s broader needs in central midfield.