Manchester United considering summer move for PL star with £68m release clause: Reports

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move next summer for Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, who has a £68 million release clause set to become active at the end of the season. Eze has been excellent for the Eagles since joining the club in 2020 and his contract with the Premier League side is valid until 2027.

According to Manchester Evening News (via ESPN), the Red Devils are closely monitoring the 26-year-old, as they look to bolster their attacking options next summer.

In 128 games for Crystal Palace, Eze has scored 28 goals and provided 17 assists and his performances have not gone unnoticed by top Premier League clubs. Manchester United, in particular, are said to be weighing up a potential bid, with the player’s release clause offering them a clear pathway in negotiations.

With Jadon Sancho loaned out to Chelsea and Marcus Rashford grappling for form, United boss Erik ten Hag has reportedly circled out their wing-play as the area in urgent need of improvement. The explosive midfielder, known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability, fits the profile of player Ten Hag is seeking to improve United’s attack.

However, United will likely face competition for Eze’s signature, as Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have also shown interest in the England international, according to ESPN.

United are expected to make significant moves in the transfer market next summer as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for major honors. Eze could turn out to be the centerpiece of the project.

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Manuel Ugarte provides fitness update ahead of potential Manchester United debut

Manuel Ugarte is on course to make his highly anticipated Manchester United debut this weekend against Southampton, despite a recent bout of illness. The 23-year-old midfielder was signed from Paris Saint-Germain for up to £50.7 million this summer. He played 90 minutes for Uruguay in their 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw against Venezuela on Tuesday.

Ugarte had been a doubt for the game due to a fever he suffered in the 24 hours leading up to the match. Speaking to AUF TV (via Metro) afterward, he said:

“Now I feel a bit down, but I felt fine during the match despite the heat. Yesterday, I had a bit of a fever, but we drew and got a point.”

Upon his return to Manchester, Ugarte will be assessed by United’s medical team ahead of their Premier League clash against Southampton this Saturday. If cleared, he could make his debut at St. Mary’s after being introduced to fans at Old Trafford earlier this month.