Pape Gueye at centre of deadline-day talks with Manchester United

Manchester United have stepped up efforts to sign Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye before the close of the winter transfer window, with negotiations intensifying as the Spanish club hold out for a higher fee.

The 26-year-old Senegal international has emerged as a key target for the Premier League side, who are seeking long-term midfield reinforcements.

United are understood to have submitted an initial offer of €25m, but Villarreal rejected the proposal and are demanding at least €35m for the player, who remains under contract until 2028.

Talks gathered pace on Thursday, 26 February, with a Manchester United representative travelling to Spain in a bid to accelerate discussions before the transfer deadline.

Gueye joined Villarreal from Marseille in 2024 for €8m and has since established himself as an influential figure in La Liga.

This season, he has scored three goals and provided four assists in 22 appearances, playing a pivotal role in his side’s 4-4-2 system.

His performances have drawn attention beyond Spain, with English clubs monitoring his progress closely.

United view Gueye as a potential successor to Casemiro as they look to rejuvenate their midfield. Injuries to Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount have exposed vulnerabilities in the squad, increasing the urgency to secure reinforcements.

The midfielder’s adaptability is regarded as one of his strongest assets. Comfortable breaking up opposition attacks and initiating forward moves, he fits the profile manager Erik ten Hag is believed to favour.

After an inconsistent spell at Marseille, Gueye has rebuilt his reputation in Spain and played a significant role in helping Villarreal secure qualification for the Europa League.

Sources indicate the player would welcome a move to Old Trafford, seeing it as an opportunity to test himself in England’s top flight.

Villarreal, however, face a difficult decision. Currently positioned in mid-table and wary of slipping further down the standings, the club must weigh the sporting impact of losing a key player against the financial benefits of a substantial transfer fee.

Reports suggest United could increase their offer to €40m including bonuses as the deadline approaches.

Should the deal be completed, it would represent a major acquisition for Manchester United as they push for a strong finish to the season and a place in next year’s Champions League. For Villarreal, it would signal a significant reshuffle at a crucial stage of the campaign.

With only hours remaining in the transfer window, Gueye’s future remains uncertain — but developments are expected swiftly as both clubs seek resolution.