MANCHESTER, England — Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth and manager Erik ten Hag are working around the clock to finalize the club’s summer business before the transfer window slams shut. The club’s hierarchy has made it clear that they are actively looking to strengthen the squad, prioritizing a dynamic defensive midfielder and defensive reinforcement to provide vital depth for a demanding domestic and European campaign.

United’s primary focus in the midfield remains locked on Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte. Negotiations between the two clubs have advanced significantly, with United working to structure a package that meets PSG’s valuation, potentially through a loan deal with an obligation to buy. Internal club sources suggest that terms are progressing well, though a final breakthrough on the fee structure has yet to be formally signed off.

Beyond the engine room, United’s recruitment team continues to assess opportunities in the market for defensive cover. Following the summer additions of Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt, the club is keeping an open mind regarding further full-back cover, particularly on the left flank where injury struggles heavily impacted the squad last season. While various profiles are being monitored by the scouting network, the club is balancing incoming deals with necessary squad outgoings to remain strictly compliant with financial regulations.

When questioned about squad morale and individual futures, the coaching staff has consistently kept the focus squarely on collective integration rather than individual speculation. With the final days of the transfer window shaping up to be decisive, the next 48 hours will bring critical clarity. Securing a elite holding midfielder remains the absolute priority, a move that would provide the physical, tactical platform Ten Hag needs to mount a sustained charge at the top four.