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Manchester United finished eighth in the Premier League last season, losing 14 times. However, they salvaged some pride by beating Manchester City 2-1 in the FA Cup final.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils have completed their first signing of the summer. Elsewhere, the Old Trafford outfit haven't submitted an offer for PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte yet.
On that note, here's a look at the key Manchester United transfer stories as on July 11, 2024:
Manchester United secure Joshua Zirkzee, says Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United have secured the services of Joshua Zirkzee, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Premier League giants were hot on the heels of the Dutchman all summer.
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Zirkzee caught the attention of clubs across the continent following an impressive 2023-24 campaign with Bologna. The 23-year-old registered 12 goals and seven assists in 37 games across competitions. He was also being eyed by Arsenal and Juventus.
However, it appears that the Red Devils have stolen a march on their rivals. Manchester United moved quickly to agree personal terms with the player's entourage. Ten Hag apparently played a key role in convincing the player to move to Old Trafford.
The Dutch manager remains keen to rope in a new No. 9 this summer after an underwhelming campaign in front of goal. Rasmus Hojlund struggled to live up to expectations after arriving from Atalanta last summer. Meanwhile, Anthony Martial's departure this summer accelerated the need for a new striker.
The English giants were locked in talks with Bologna in recent times and finally reached a breakthrough on Thursday. The player has a €40 million release clause in his contract, but the Red Devils have opted against triggering that option.
Instead, the Old Trafford outfit will offer a higher fee for the player, structured over three years. Zirkzee has apparently put pen to paper on a five-year deal that would keep him at the club till 2029. He's now set to become the first signing of the INEOS era.
Red Devils yet to submit Manuel Ugarte offer, says Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United are yet to submit their opening offer for Manuel Ugarte, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Uruguayan midfielder is expected to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer despite only arriving at the Parc des Princes last summer.
Ugarte appeared 37 times across competitions in the 2023-24 campaign but is no longer part of Luis Enrique's plans. The Red Devils are in the market for a new midfielder this summer, and recent reports have suggested that they have their eyes on the 23-year-old.
However, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano said that the Parisians are waiting for an opening offer for Ugarte.
“There is still some work to do. I'm told that there is still a direct discussion between Manchester United and PSG, but still not an official bid," said Romano.
He continued:
“So Paris Saint-Germain are waiting for Manchester United to present a proposal to decide how much they want to invest in Ugarte, and then they can decide on the future of the player.
"But, for sure, Ugarte is on the list, and the relationship with the player’s agent is very good. So United are on it.”
Ugarte could be a fine replacement for Casemiro, who is expected to leave Old Trafford this summer.
Jarrad Branthwaite not pushing to leave Everton, says David Ornstein
Jarrad Branthwaite hasn't agreed personal terms with United, according to transfer guru David Ornstein. The Red Devils are looking to reinforce their backline this summer following the departure of Raphael Varane.
Ten Hag has apparently zeroed in on Branthwaite as an option following his recent performances for Everton. The Toffees have reportedly rejected two offers from Manchester United, with the latest one believed to be of £50 million.
On The Athletic FC Podcast, Ornstein added that the 22-year-old is willing to stay at Goodison Park if a move fails to materialise.
"There were reports previously that he had agreed personal terms with Manchester United, but I've got no evidence to suggest that he's unhappy at Everton, that he wouldn't be the ultimate professional and continue to progress in his career positively if he stays there," said Ornstein.
He continued:
"And so, we're going to have to wait and see if Manchester United come back in.
"I don't think they're going to go a huge amount higher from the conversations I've had, and then it will become a test of Everton's resolve. But so far, they haven't blinked at all."
The Merseyside club apparently want £70 million to let Branthwaite go, but the Red Devils are reluctant to match that amount.
