Manchester United's pursuit of a third midfield addition this summer has suffered a setback following Manuel Ugarte's serious injury on Saturday. The 25-year-old was carried off on a stretcher during Uruguay's 1-0 loss to Spain, which extinguished the South American side's World Cup knockout stage ambitions.
Ugarte's injury occurred accidentally through contact with his own team-mate as he and Mathias Olivera both contested possession late in the opening period. Olivera got to the ball first and subsequently collapsed onto the United player's outstretched leg.
Fernandes Deal Complicated by Ugarte's Injury
The incident comes as the Reds seek midfield additions with Casemiro departing as a free agent this summer. West Ham star Mateus Fernandes is among the players United are eager to recruit, though Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly prepared to table a superior financial package.
It is understood that negotiations have intensified during the final week of June, driven by the Hammers' financial circumstances, with reports suggesting that Spurs are ready to satisfy West Ham's £80million valuation.
Nevertheless, Spanish outlet Marca reported on Saturday that fresh dialogue has emerged from Old Trafford with the Reds said to be willing to enhance their contract proposal for the Portuguese midfielder. They add that United also intends to enter direct negotiations with West Ham.
Midfield Market Inflation
Manchester City's staggering £116m pursuit of England and Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson speaks volumes about just how bloated the midfielder market has become. Top-quality midfielders are at a premium, and clubs fortunate enough to have such players in their ranks will dig their heels in for the highest possible price.
United were priced out of a move for former Newcastle man Anderson and could yet find themselves in a comparable situation with Fernandes unless they are willing to increase their offer.
Ugarte's Injury Impact on Transfer Plans
The Reds had planned to bring in three midfielders during this summer's transfer window; however, that was dependent on United securing a buyer for Ugarte.
FIFA's Club Protection Programme will cover Ugarte's wages should he be side-lined for at least 28 consecutive days. The scheme meets the salary of an injured player up to a maximum of €7.5m (£6.6m) until they are deemed fit to return for their club.
Yet that does little to resolve the challenge of offloading Ugarte while carrying a serious injury, meaning he would in all likelihood remain at United until at least the January transfer window.
United Close to Ederson Deal
The Reds are at least edging closer to securing one new midfield addition, having already struck an agreement with Atalanta for Ederson. The Brazilian will make the move following a £35m initial fee, plus £3.8m in add-ons, being confirmed between the two clubs.
