Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of completing a deal to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte, as they look to strengthen their options in central midfield. Ugarte, a promising talent known for his defensive solidity and ability to control the game, has been identified as a key target by United’s recruitment team. The 23-year-old Uruguayan made 37 appearances for PSG last season after his transfer from Sporting Lisbon, showcasing his skills in Ligue 1 and on the European stage. His arrival would provide the Red Devils with much-needed depth and quality in the midfield department, a position where they’ve lacked consistency in recent years.
However, United legend Paul Scholes believes his former club might be missing a trick by focusing on Ugarte. Scholes, who was a pivotal figure in United’s midfield during his playing days, thinks the club should have set their sights on a different type of midfielder altogether. According to Scholes, United’s current squad lacks a player capable of dictating the tempo of the game and controlling the flow from the center of the pitch. He argues that a player with these attributes would bring a new dimension to United’s play, something that has been notably absent since his own retirement.
Scholes pointed to Ilkay Gundogan, the former Manchester City star, as the kind of player United should have been pursuing. After a successful spell with Barcelona, Gundogan made a surprising return to Manchester City this summer. Scholes sees Gundogan’s experience and playmaking abilities as exactly what United need. The German international, known for his vision, passing range, and leadership on the field, could have provided the stability and creativity that United have been missing. Scholes suggested that a player of Gundogan’s caliber would be able to manage the tempo of the game, control possession, and bring the best out of those around him.
In addition to Gundogan, Scholes also mentioned Martin Zubimendi, the Real Sociedad midfielder, as another player who could fit the bill for United. Zubimendi, a highly-rated Spanish international, was reportedly on the radar of several top European clubs, including Liverpool, who made an approach earlier this summer. However, Zubimendi turned down the opportunity to move to Anfield, opting instead to stay with Sociedad. Scholes believes Zubimendi’s composure, tactical awareness, and ability to break up play would make him an ideal addition to United’s midfield, offering a blend of defensive capabilities and ball control.
Reflecting on United’s current midfield setup and their need for reinforcements, Scholes shared his thoughts on *The Overlap*, a popular football discussion platform. “I think that’s the type of player they need – a Zubimendi or – I’m gonna say – Gundogan,” Scholes stated. He emphasized the importance of having a controlling midfielder who can orchestrate the play from deep, ensuring United dominate the ball and dictate the pace of matches. For Scholes, the signing of a player like Gundogan or Zubimendi would not only add quality to United’s midfield but also provide the experience and composure necessary to compete at the highest level.
With the summer transfer window closing on August 30, Manchester United’s pursuit of a new midfielder remains a key talking point. While Ugarte’s potential arrival offers promise, the debate sparked by Scholes highlights the ongoing search for the ideal blend of talent and experience that could finally bring balance and control to United’s midfield. As fans eagerly await the club’s next move, the question remains: will Ugarte be the answer, or will United look elsewhere to find their midfield maestro?