Manchester United have made plenty of headlines in the summer transfer window, but the biggest one could be yet to come.
Raheem Sterling, formerly of Liverpool and Manchester City, has emerged as a shock target for United, with less than 72 hours until the window slams shut. A swap deal with Chelsea that would see Jadon Sancho head in the opposite direction to Stamford Bridge has been discussed between the two Premier League giants, both of whom want to offload their respective wingers.
Sterling's sensational arrival could put a hectic end to what's already been a busy window at Old Trafford, as Manuel Ugarte is expected to soon be confirmed as United's fifth summer signing. Erik ten Hag will welcome the Uruguayan midfielder to his squad after Paris Saint-Germain accepted an offer that will see the Red Devils pay an initial £42.3 million fee plus £8.4 million in add-ons.
Ugarte, 23, would add a new dimension to United's midfield, likely resulting in Casemiro dropping out of Ten Hag's preferred starting XI. PSG's tough tackler would partner Kobbie Mainoo, with Bruno Fernandes returning to an advanced role once Joshua Zirkzee finds full fitness or Rasmus Hojlund returns from injury.
Speaking of injuries, the return of Luke Shaw at left-back can't come soon enough for Ten Hag, who's currently using Diogo Dalot there as a makeshift alternative. Center-back Leny Yoro is also sidelined, but with Matthijs de Ligt now through the door, it'd be a surprise not to see the Dutchman not partner Lisandro Martinez for at least this season.
One area in which Ten Hag isn't short of options is on the flanks, making the Sterling move even more intriguing. The 29-year-old's ability to play as a false nine could be an attraction for Ten Hag, although he's largely played on the left throughout his career.
As the clock ticks closer to deadline day, fans will get feverish over the prospect of two more signings, although Ten Hag has called for calmness. "Be patient, sit, wait," the Red Devils boss said ahead of Sunday's late 2-1 loss to Brighton, which reminded United of their need for additions.
"We keep working very hard. We will always try to make the best squad possible. We have a couple of days, and we will always improve. As long as we have the opportunity, we will look for it."
blogpay
Total Comments: 0