Manchester United’s pursuit of a new midfielder this summer has hit a snag, as their chance to secure a swap deal involving Sander Berge now seems lost. Fulham have agreed to a £20 million-plus deal for the Burnley midfielder. Potentially impacting United’s efforts to sign their primary target, Manuel Ugarte.
United had initially been considering both Ugarte, from Paris Saint-Germain, and Burnley’s Sander Berge. With Berge now set to move to Fulham, the club had an opportunity to push for a swap involving their own midfielder, Hannibal Mejbri, who is also on Burnley’s radar. This move could have been beneficial, but United’s focus remained on Ugarte.
The situation leaves United in a delicate position. Although Fulham have secured Berge, United still have the option to negotiate with Burnley, who are interested in Mejbri. The 21-year-old midfielder is entering the final year of his contract and could move on. Either on loan or permanently, with Burnley keen to secure him for at least a season.
United’s ideal scenario would involve a permanent transfer for Mejbri, given his limited impact in the first team and a challenging loan spell at Sevilla last season. The potential £25 million gained from Berge’s transfer could provide Burnley with the funds to facilitate Mejbri’s move. Which in turn could help United bolster their finances and push for Ugarte.
United had previously been hesitant to meet PSG’s £51.1 million asking price for Ugarte. The club also considered selling Scott McTominay to Napoli to fund Ugarte deal, but Napoli’s interest seems to have waned. With the Italian side now looking at Brighton’s Billy Gilmour. The sale of Mejbri could reignite United’s bid for Ugarte.
Manager Erik ten Hag might explore a loan arrangement with an obligation to buy for Ugarte. However, fans will have to stay tuned as the transfer window progresses to see how United’s plans will unfold and whether they can secure their midfield targets.
