Manchester United hold initial talks over France international; 4+ midfield alternatives considered

Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit to sign a new midfielder by holding initial talks with Ligue outfit Monaco over the signing of France international Youssouf Fofana.

According to Sky Sports, United have explored the conditions of a deal for Fofana, who has entered the final 12 months of his contract.

The 25-year-old joined Monaco from Strasbourg in 2020 and has made 175 appearances, scoring seven goals.

Sky Sports adds that United are looking at several midfield options including Richard Rios from Palmeiras, Burnley’s Sander Berge, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and Forentina’s Sofyan Amrabat, who was on loan at the club last season.

That means United are looking at Fofana and at least four other midfield options. And there is still a chance PSG could lower their excessive demands for Manuel Ugarte.

Stretty News listed seven midfield options that United should consider as alternatives to Ugarte, however, it’s important to note that Fofana is a different type of midfielder than the Uruguay international.

Fofana plays his best football as a box-to-box midfielder, whereas Ugarte would arguably offer more protection in front of the back four.

Additionally, the report adds that United are aware PSG want to do business having just signed Joao Neves from Benfica for £50m. That means they haven’t completely given up on signing Ugarte.

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