Recent developments suggest Manchester United may be shifting their focus from Manuel Ugarte to alternative options. Despite previously reaching an agreement with Ugarte, Manchester United is now prepared to abandon their pursuit of the Uruguayan midfielder. The Premier League club is unwilling to meet PSG’s asking price of over €60 million.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United will explore other top targets that offer a more suitable deal. Sofyan Amrabat has emerged as a key target following his return to Fiorentina after a season with Old Trafford. While Amrabat could potentially be a more cost-effective option, his performance last season did not fully convince that he is an upgrade for Manchester United’s midfield, especially with players like Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Scott McTominay potentially leaving the club. Besides Amrabat, journalist Ben Jacobs also mentions Joao Gomes of Wolves as another viable option for Manchester United.

Gomes, who joined Wolverhampton Wanderers from Flamengo a year and a half ago, has become one of the most promising all-around players in the Premier League. The Brazilian midfielder is known for his strong ball recovery skills and previously impressed against Manchester United when Wolves defeated Erik ten Hag’s side in the opening match of the 2023/24 season at Old Trafford.

Another Brazilian who could be on Manchester United’s radar is Andre Trindade. The 23-year-old currently plays for Fluminense and has not yet competed in Europe. However, Jacobs believes Andre could be acquired for under £30 million, making him one of the more affordable options for Manchester United. Interestingly, should Andre move to Manchester United, he would have the opportunity to meet his idol. In an interview with Folha de Pernambuco last year, the Fluminense number 7 acknowledged the similarities between his playing style and that of a younger Casemiro:

“It is very satisfying to always be here and compete with the best, especially in the Brazilian national team, which has some of the world’s best players.”

“In recent years, Casemiro has been a top player in his position in Europe. He has played in the best leagues. Therefore, this is a period of learning for me. I am trying to learn from him, from his movement, from his marking. The reason is that I am a similar type of midfielder to Casemiro.”