Manuel Ugarte takes next step as prospective Man United transfer would break rule

Questions surrounding Manchester United’s midfield have been the focal point of discussion over the past two weeks, and especially so within the last seven days.

Casemiro’s disastrous display against Liverpool saw him taken off at half-time having been dispossessed for the visitors’ opening two goals. His display has placed more emphasis on Manuel Ugarte to hit the ground running.

Erik ten Hag said it could take “weeks” for the Uruguayan to get up to full speed, albeit he is expected to make his debut against Southampton after the international break. Meanwhile, Casemiro has been linked with interest in Turkey, with the country’s transfer window remaining open until Friday.

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The Brazilian was named in United’s Europa League squad earlier this week, suggesting an exit was not imminent. While Casemiro is expected to stay, United still have the possibility of signing new midfield colleagues to shore up options.

Despite the English deadline passing more than a week ago, United can still sign free agents. Adrien Rabiot has yet to find a new club having left Juventus at the end of last season, and French outlet Le Figaro says United are keeping tabs.

However, it adds they are not alone, with Barcelona and Newcastle considering approaches. United almost signed Rabiot two years ago before pivoting towards Casemiro. They had struck a deal struck with Juventus before talks about personal terms broke down.

MEN Sport says: "United are mindful of their financial position within Premier League spending rules and while Rabiot