‘Already packing his bags’… £59m move is imminent and will have a knock-on effect for Man United

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Manchester United made a storming start to the transfer window but their progress on midfield targets has slowed.

The Red Devils made a quick start to the summer by wrapping up deals for Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro as well as tabling two bids for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite

Their latest bid for the defender was worth up to £50million and HITC revealed that United are working on a third bid for Branthwaite.

Manchester United also entered talks with Bayern Munich for Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui as they continue to search for defensive reinforcements.

But another top priority for Erik ten Hag’s side is a new midfield signing with the future of Casemiro and Scott McTominay in doubt.

Manchester United wanted to sign Manuel Ugarte before they flew out on their pre-season tour of the United States, but talks with Paris Saint-Germain have slowed.

Joao Neves deal could fast-track Man United transfer

One stumbling block in United’s pursuit of Manuel Ugarte is that PSG have been keen to get a deal for Joao Neves over the line first.

Once Neves signs for the French club, they are free to move on Ugarte knowing a replacement has already been sourced.

According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, a full agreement between Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain for the transfer of Joao Neves is now imminent.

The report adds that Neves is “already packing his bags” with the two parties close to a 70million Euro agreement (£59million).

Manuel Ugarte progress should pick up

With Neves’ future now decided, progress over Ugarte’s move to Old Trafford should begin to pick up speed again.

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag tipped to have a ‘bust-up’ with one Man United star this season, he is a ‘big problem’

Ugarte is keen to join Erik ten Hag’s side this summer so personal terms is no issue for the 23-year-old midfielder.

United have identified alternative options such as Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana in case a move for Ugarte fell through, but Neves’ departure was the final domino to fall into place.