EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd and Newcastle open transfer talks for €50m midfield star

EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd and Newcastle open Hugo Larsson transfer talks and have both held talks with representatives of Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Hugo Larsson as the race for the gifted young midfielder picks up pace, sources have been told. Sources close to the player have revealed to sources that initial contact has been made by both Premier League clubs as they assess a potential move for the 22-year-old Sweden international, who is open to a move away from the Bundesliga side. Neither of the Premier League clubs have yet made an official bid for Larsson, who has developed into one of the standout midfielders in Germany since his €9 million move from Malmo in 2023. Frankfurt want €50m for Larsson Man Utd have already signed Andrey Santos and to bolster their midfield this summer, but the Red Devils are hoping to add a third player to Michael Carrick’s options in the heart of the park. It is widely expected, however, that the next arrival will be a marquee figure capable of elevating the level of the team to become Premier League title challengers although, despite Larsson’s potential, he does not yet fall into such a bracket. Newcastle's interest also carries added significance. The Magpies are still fighting to retain , who is wanted by Arsenal. However, they are preparing for every eventuality. Should the Brazil star depart, Larsson is seen as someone capable of plugging the gap thanks to his energy, athleticism and all-action style. Eddie Howe's side have also missed out on a number of top transfer targets to their rivals in the last 12 months, the latest being midfielder Johan Manzambi, who is expected to join Aston Villa from Freiburg, at the Geordies are determined not to let Larsson become the latest player to slip through their grasp. Any deal will have to be agreed through Frankfurt, who are in a strong negotiating position given their player remains under contract until 2029. As such, the Germans are holding out for a transfer fee in the region of €50 million – a sizeable chunk above the box-to-box star’s €27.6m Estimated Transfer Value (ETV). While talks have been held with Larsson’s representatives, neither of the Premier League sides has taken the step of making an official offer for him. Hugo Larsson: Expert Opinion Larsson, who has been billed as Declan Rice 2.0, is coming off an average season, says Bundesliga expert Tom Weber, who insists the problems have not necessarily been of the youngster’s own making. “Larsson is planning to take the next step in his career this summer," Weber told sources. However, it is looking increasingly unlikely that Frankfurt will get the desired fee for the youngster. He simply hasn't justified his price tag this season. “It is important to note, though, that it hasn't all been his fault. On the contrary, it has been a hugely difficult season for Frankfurt, who sacked Dino Toppmoller in January and replaced him with Albert Riera. “Larsson is a box-to-box midfielder, but he is at his best when he has a more defensive-minded player next to or behind him. In past seasons, Ellyes Skhiri's impressive form has allowed the Swede to interpret his role freely and to cheat a little on defensive responsibilities. “However, the Tunisia international, now aged 31, has endured a very difficult season. He seems to have lost a step and perhaps a little focus, and Frankfurt don't really have anyone else like him in the squad. This has had a destabilising effect on the team and on Larsson. “However, given his impressive potential, signing Larsson could be a gamble worth taking.”