INEOS switch attention from Ugarte to £38m alternative who ‘shocked’ Liverpool scouts

Sanctioning a midfield arrival before deadline day is almost essential for Manchester United if they want a chance at going toe-to-toe with their rivals next season.

As it stands, the only positions that have been bolstered this summer thus far are central defence, in the form of teenage prospect Leny Yoro, and the forward department with Joshua Zirkzee, who is likely to play second fiddle to Rasmus Hojlund when the No.9 returns from his injury setback.

Last night, a report from The Telegraph claimed that United chiefs entered the transfer window with the expectation that Casemiro would be sold before the term began. However, a lack of interest in the ageing Brazilian could force their hand into selling Scott McTominay instead, as he has been the subject of two rejected bids from Fulham and an approach from Galatasaray.

Read more: United have now blown race wide open for ‘magnificent’ midfielder who is currently mulling over Old Trafford move

Starting a new campaign with Casemiro cemented into the 11 won’t fill the United faithful with too much optimism, especially if his lacklustre pre-season performances are anything to go by.

United revive interest in Serie A ace

As such, GiveMeSport has revealed that INEOS figures are now targeting a cheaper alternative to Manuel Ugarte, for whom Paris Saint-Germain were demanding around £51 million.

Read more: Seven Manuel Ugarte alternatives United should consider – opinion 

They’ve shortlisted Atalanta’s Ederson – a player who left Liverpool scouts ‘shocked’ when they watched him in action – due to him being available for £38m.

The 25-year-old, capped twice for Brazil, was first shortlisted by the Reds back in March, and they could now look to materialise their interest by sending a bid the Serie A outfit’s way.