- Manuel Ugarte expected to leave Manchester United
- A move to Italy on the cards
- Uruguayan’s agent trying to secure transfer
Manchester United’s summer midfield overhaul is gathering pace, and Manuel Ugarte looks set to be one of the first casualties. The Uruguayan international arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 with considerable fanfare.
However, he has failed to cement a regular place in Michael Carrick’s starting XI. Now, his agent is actively exploring escape routes.
According to journalist Nicolo Schira, Jorge Mendes has offered Ugarte to three Serie A giants ahead of the summer transfer window. Juventus, Napoli and AC Milan have all been approached, with the player’s future at Old Trafford looking increasingly uncertain.
Juventus have already scouted Ugarte in person, having monitored him during Uruguay’s friendly against Algeria roughly 20 days ago. Napoli, meanwhile, benefits from an excellent working relationship with United, which could smooth negotiations.
Milan have also entered the conversation, with Mendes working the phones to secure his client a Serie A landing spot.
Manchester United Star Ugarte Off to Italy?
Of the three Italian suitors, Juve appear the most determined. The Bianconeri’s interest in Ugarte dates back to his days at Sporting CP, and sporting director Marco Ottolini has personally tracked the midfielder during recent international fixtures.
Any deal is heavily conditional on Champions League qualification. The Old Lady currently sit outside the top four in Serie A, and without that financial boost, meeting United’s asking price becomes far more difficult.
Manchester United are reportedly open to letting Ugarte leave, with the club valuing him at around £35m. That represents a significant loss on the £50m package paid to PSG just two years ago, but the Red Devils are prepared to cut their losses as part of a wider midfield reset. Casemiro is also expected to depart when his contract expires, leaving Kobbie Mainoo as the only assured starter in the middle of the park.
Why United are ready to move on
Ugarte’s time at Old Trafford has never truly taken off. Despite the arrival of his former Sporting coach, Ruben Amorim, the 25‑year‑old has struggled for consistency and game time under Carrick. This season, he has made 21 appearances in the Premier League without registering a single goal or assist. With United targeting at least two new midfielders this summer, Ugarte has been deemed surplus to requirements.
A move to Italy would suit all parties. Ugarte would get a fresh start in a league that values his combative, ball‑winning style. Manchester United would free up squad space and wages. And Mendes would have delivered another high‑profile client to Serie A’s elite.
The only question now is whether Juventus, Napoli or Milan can put together a package that satisfies United’s valuation. If not, the Uruguayan’s awkward limbo could drag deep into the summer.
