United are preparing £17m offer for Copa America star despite Manuel Ugarte move - Report

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios this summer. 

The 24-year-old joined the Sao Paulo outfit last summer and enjoyed an excellent debut season, featuring in 29 appearances across all competitions and scoring two goals. 

He also started all six matches at the Copa America 2024 as Colombia made it to the final, where they lost 1-0 to Argentina. 

The midfielder’s excellent displays have caught the attention of United who have made an enquiry about him, per Goal Brasil. 

The Red Devils are also said to be preparing a £17 million offer to secure his services this summer. 

They have completed deals for Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro to bolster their attack and defence. Now midfield is the position they want to strengthen and are already negotiating with Paris Saint-Germain over a move for Manuel Ugarte. 

Recent reports claim Ugarte is keen to join the Premier League giants and agreement with PSG over transfer fee is also close. 

However, United are also looking to add another midfielder in Richard Rios who has proven himself at the Copa America and looks ready for a move to a top football league. 

The 24-year-old mainly operates as a central midfielder but he can also be utilised as a defensive as well as a right midfielder. 

Palmeiras are said to be very reluctant to lose their star player in the middle of the season but a big offer could change their mind. 

Stats from Transfermarkt