Manuel Ugarte: Manchester United sign ‘determined’ PSG midfielder for £42.3m

Manuel Ugarte says he is “so determined to succeed” after the midfielder completed his long-anticipated transfer from Paris St-Germain to Manchester United for an initial £42.3m.

United could pay £8.5m in add-ons for the 23-year-old, who has signed a five-year contract with a 10% sell-on clause for PSG as part of the deal.

“It is an incredible feeling to join a club of this magnitude; one that is admired all around the world,” the Uruguay international said.

“The project that the football leadership discussed with me is extremely exciting; Manchester United is an ambitious club and I am an ambitious player.”

FINALLY!!!!!!! 🔴🔴🔴🔴 https://t.co/t9p4NtS5O7

— Manuel Ugarte (@manuugarte8) August 30, 2024

Ugarte United ‘primary target’

Earlier in the evening on transfer deadline day, United midfielder Scott McTominay joined Italian club Napoli for £25.7m.

New United sporting director Dan Ashworth said the club felt Ugarte would have a “positive impact on the pitch and in the dressing room”.

“Signing Manuel was another of our primary targets for this summer,” said Ashworth. “He is among the very best ball-winning midfield players in the world and has an excellent record at both club and international level. His qualities, experience and passion will be a great complement to our strong group of midfielders.”

Ugarte won Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France with PSG in his sole season with the French giants following his move from Sporting.

Bienvenido al club, Manuel Ugarte 🇺🇾 pic.twitter.com/V9xrzZx0kQ

— Manchester United (@ManUtd_Es) August 30, 2024

United fans ‘incredible’

The tough tackler was also named in the 2024 Copa America Team of the Tournament after helping his country finish third.

“The passion of supporters is something that is very important to me,” said Ugarte. “I know how incredible United fans are and I cannot wait to experience Old Trafford.

“I’m someone who is so determined to succeed; I will sacrifice and give everything for my team-mates. Together, we will fight to win trophies and reach the level where this club needs to be.”

United beat Fulham 1-0 at home in their opening game of the season but lost 2-1 at Brighton & Hove Albion on August 24. They host Liverpool on Sunday (4pm BST).