Manchester United could sign Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain but at the cost of accepting defeat in the pursuit of Benfica star Joao Neves.

The Red Devils have been linked with both midfielders this summer. Erik ten Hag is understood to be looking at improving his midfield for the 2024/25 season as part of his overhaul of his squad.

Uncertainty over the future of Casemiro and Scott McTominay could see United left short of options. Academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo is almost certain to be one of the first names on the team sheet with Bruno Fernandes, but there is likely to be one space available.

Ugarte and Neves have both been players tipped for big-money moves to Old Trafford. Ugarte only joined PSG last summer from Sporting CP but United have identified the Uruguay international as an ideal replacement for Casemiro.

Now, according to A Bola, PSG’s pursuit of Neves rests on the French giants selling midfielders. Neves’ agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly insisted that they must make room for the Benfica star before a deal is completed.

Ugarte is one of the players said to be on PSG’s transfer list this summer. A move to Manchester could be accelerated to ensure a deal between PSG and Benfica for Neves can be sealed sooner rather than later.

PSG are said to be willing to pay the £84m release clause in Neves’ deal in Portugal. Should the report be believed, it could be a much-needed boost to United’s hopes of signing Ugarte and getting the deal over the line.