Manchester United are scouring the market for a new midfielder after spending much of the summer pursuing Manuel Ugarte. But interest in Ugarte has gone cold after Paris Saint-Germain wanted too large of a fee for his signature. It means the Red Devils are in search of other targets, with Burnley’s Sander Berge considered to be on their radar.
Manchester United have been linked to several midfielders, including Martin Zubimendi, Youssouf Fofana, Adrien Rabiot, and former player, Sofyan Amrabat. Among these, Sander Berge has gained a lot of attention. Sky Sports claim that Burnley have held initial talks with Manchester United.
Manchester United interested in Berge
The Red Devils showed a proactive approach early in the transfer window by securing Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro. Despite this, the pace of signings has slowed, mainly due to budget constraints. The Red Devils do not want to spend more than required, a situation that has in turn led them to rejecting a move for Ugarte. Although Fofana is available for around £30 million, the club is currently prioritizing Sander Berge, who is valued at around £20 million by United.
Berge is expected to cost around £30 million. Despite the price gap, United remain hopeful about negotiating a lower fee. Berge enjoyed an impressive debut campaign with Burnley last season where he boasted an 89% pass success rate and averaged five recoveries, two tackles, and just under two clearances per game. The Norway midfielder is good on the ball, but he has had lapses and erred in passing at times, such as the one that led to Antony’s goal in a 1-1 draw in April.
With a towering figure of six foot five and remarkable speed, Berge was Burnley’s Player of the Season. He was the 10th quickest player last season with a top speed of 35.90 km/h which shows his athletic ability. Although he seems to have a suitable profile, many fans demand someone of a higher calibre in order to aim for silverware.
Reports indicate that Fenerbahce is also keen on having Berge as an alternative to Amrabat. However, Manchester United are confident in their ability to secure Berge’s services over the Turkish giants. Berge has established himself in English football through his progressive play at Sheffield United and Burnley, where his passing created many opportunities for his teammates, enhancing attacking plays and goal-scoring chances.
Berge Offered a Bumper Contract
PSG refused to budge from their £51 million valuation for Ugarte — a figure Man Utd could not sanction. This has seen United switch their attention to Sander Berge. The club are reportedly willing to propose Berge a huge deal of £100,000-per-week wages and the Norwegian is excited about leaving for Manchester United this summer. But the transfer fee still poses a big problem. Burnley value the player at £30 million, however United are willing to offer just £20 million.
He is also cheaper than the likes of Ugarte and as a result he may be an astute signing for United. Berge averaged 2.1 tackles, 5.5 ball recoveries and made one clearance per game in his 37 Premier League outings last term. Burnley are in no rush to sell Berge having received a parachute payment of £100m. Hence, they surely have an edge over United in the negotiations for his £30m price tag.
While Manchester United face financial limits and competion from other teams, securing Sander Berge could improve their midfield without breaking the bank. The club’s ability to negotiate a favourable deal will be crucial in their bid to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
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