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Manchester United have set their sights on 18-year-old Partizan Belgrade midfielder Ognjen Ugresic, a talent being compared to Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham and former United midfielder Paul Pogba.
The Serbian youngster’s agent has confirmed United’s interest, revealing that scouts from Old Trafford have been monitoring his development closely alongside several Italian clubs.
“I can confirm the winter press reports are based on reality,” Ugresic’s agent Ostoja Stjepanovic told Nemzeti Sport. “Not only Manchester United observers are following his development, but also Serie A clubs.”
Why Ugresic stands out
The teenage sensation has already made 8 appearances for Partizan’s first team, finding the net once, and represents Serbia at U-19 level. Before his senior breakthrough, he dominated at youth level with impressive numbers:
- 9 goals and 5 assists at Partizan U-19 level
- Top speed exceeding 35 km/h despite his height
- Technical ability compared to Bellingham and Pogba
- Already capped at Serbia U-19 level
“His technical skills are outstanding,” Stjepanovic added. “He also has the speed for the top level. Playing behind the forward line, he helps with actions, sees the game well, he’s an intelligent footballer.”
Transfer timing could be the issue
Despite United’s interest, Ugresic’s agent believes the player would benefit from further development at Partizan before making a big move.
“It would be too early for him to switch. He could get the playing opportunities he needs to advance to the next level at Partizan next season,” Stjepanovic explained.
This measured approach aligns with the midfielder’s rapid development under manager Srdan Blagojevic in recent months, with his agent emphasizing: “He has developed a lot in a few months under Blagojevic’s guidance, but he needs time to develop.”
United’s midfield shuffle creates opportunity
As Ruben Amorim plans his first full season at Old Trafford, United’s midfield appears set for significant changes:
- Christian Eriksen will leave when his contract expires in June
- Casemiro faces speculation about a potential Saudi Pro League move
- Reports suggest academy product Kobbie Mainoo could be sold for the right price
- Bruno Fernandes expected to drop deeper next season
With these potential departures creating space in United’s engine room, Ugresic fits the club’s revamped transfer strategy focusing on promising talents rather than established stars.
The Red Devils’ interest in Ugresic signals Amorim’s commitment to building for the future, though fans may need to be patient as this particular target appears likely to remain at Partizan for at least another season to continue his development with regular playing time.
Manchester United have set their sights on 18-year-old Partizan Belgrade midfielder Ognjen Ugresic, a talent being compared to Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham and former United midfielder Paul Pogba.
The Serbian youngster’s agent has confirmed United’s interest, revealing that scouts from Old Trafford have been monitoring his development closely alongside several Italian clubs.
“I can confirm the winter press reports are based on reality,” Ugresic’s agent Ostoja Stjepanovic told Nemzeti Sport. “Not only Manchester United observers are following his development, but also Serie A clubs.”
Why Ugresic stands out
The teenage sensation has already made 8 appearances for Partizan’s first team, finding the net once, and represents Serbia at U-19 level. Before his senior breakthrough, he dominated at youth level with impressive numbers:
- 9 goals and 5 assists at Partizan U-19 level
- Top speed exceeding 35 km/h despite his height
- Technical ability compared to Bellingham and Pogba
- Already capped at Serbia U-19 level
“His technical skills are outstanding,” Stjepanovic added. “He also has the speed for the top level. Playing behind the forward line, he helps with actions, sees the game well, he’s an intelligent footballer.”
Transfer timing could be the issue
Despite United’s interest, Ugresic’s agent believes the player would benefit from further development at Partizan before making a big move.
“It would be too early for him to switch. He could get the playing opportunities he needs to advance to the next level at Partizan next season,” Stjepanovic explained.
This measured approach aligns with the midfielder’s rapid development under manager Srdan Blagojevic in recent months, with his agent emphasizing: “He has developed a lot in a few months under Blagojevic’s guidance, but he needs time to develop.”
United’s midfield shuffle creates opportunity
As Ruben Amorim plans his first full season at Old Trafford, United’s midfield appears set for significant changes:
- Christian Eriksen will leave when his contract expires in June
- Casemiro faces speculation about a potential Saudi Pro League move
- Reports suggest academy product Kobbie Mainoo could be sold for the right price
- Bruno Fernandes expected to drop deeper next season
With these potential departures creating space in United’s engine room, Ugresic fits the club’s revamped transfer strategy focusing on promising talents rather than established stars.
The Red Devils’ interest in Ugresic signals Amorim’s commitment to building for the future, though fans may need to be patient as this particular target appears likely to remain at Partizan for at least another season to continue his development with regular playing time.
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