Manchester United dealt blow as transfer target set to join Serie A giants - Reports
Manchester United have reportedly missed out on Youssouf Fofana as the AS Monaco midfielder is on the verge of becoming an AC Milan player. The Frenchman was linked with the Red Devils but opted to join the Rossoneri.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Fofana is joining Milan in a €25m package deal on a four-year contract with the option of a further year. The holding midfielder prioritized a move to the San Siro throughout the summer.
Fofana, 25, impressed for Monaco last season with four goals and as many assists in 35 games across competitions. He earned a place in France's squad for Euro 2024, making three substitute appearances in Germany.
It means Manchester United will have to look elsewhere to help reinforce Erik ten Hag's midfield. Fofana fit the bill for the profile INEOS were looking for as they sought a more defensive-minded presence in the middle of the park.
The Red Devils have set their sights on Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte but are struggling to agree on a fee with the Ligue 1 giants. The Uruguayan defensive midfielder, 23, has agreed on personal terms with the Premier League club and is 'pushing' for the move, per Romano.
Manchester United could swoop for former Serie A star Adrien Rabiot instead: Reports
Adrien Rabiot is another midfielder on Manchester United's radar this summer. The Frenchman is a free agent after leaving Juventus when his contract expired in June.
90min reports that Rabiot, 29, is interested in joining the Red Devils who hold a long-term interest in him. They tried signing him in 2022 but couldn't agree on wages leading to the transfer falling through.
Rabiot is willing to wait for the transfer window to progress before deciding his future and a new club. He wants to stay in Europe, with United joined in the race to sign him by Galatasaray, Atletico Madrid, and Saudi Arabian giants Al Shabab.
The 48-cap France international is more attacking-minded than Fofana but could offer Ten Hag much-needed energy in midfield. He appeared 35 times across competitions for Juve last season, scoring five goals and providing three assists.
Manchester United won't have to worry about potential interest from any Premier League rivals. Chelsea and Liverpool aren't considering Rabiot despite some reports suggesting the two heavyweights were keeping tabs.