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Manchester United are likely to streamline their squad this year after removing much of the dead wood in the summer of 2025. Alejandro Garnacho and Antony were permanently released, while Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana were sent out on loan.
The Red Devils then strengthened their attack, adding Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to their squad. Midfield is expected to be on the agenda for the English giants this year, especially as the position has looked like a weak link in the team this season.
Several candidates have been touted as possible solutions to United’s problems, while a number of players could also be on the way. Casemiro’s contract expires at the end of this season and he has not yet signed a new contract.
Manuel Ugarte, meanwhile, has struggled for opportunities this season and has also been heavily linked with a move away this month.
Ugarte’s Old Trafford woes
The Uruguayan was signed in the summer of 2024 as a possible successor to Casemiro, but has since seen the Brazilian relegate him to the bench. This season, Ugarte has registered 16 appearances in all competitions for United, including eight starts.
Manuel Ugarte Statistics: 2025/26 season
| Competition | Played | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Red cards | Minutes played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 15 | — | — | 1 | — | 726′ |
| EFL Cup | 1 | — | — | — | — | 45′ |
| Total | 16 | — | — | 1 | — | 771′ |
Source: Transfer market.
The 24-year-old has failed to live up to expectations since arriving at the Theater of Dreams and his future is now up in the air. An earlier report from The Peoples Person stated that Galatasaray are interested in a move for Ugarte this month.
It is also reported that Ajax is interested in the Uruguayan. The Eredivisie side are looking for a replacement for James McConnell, whose loan deal has reportedly been cut short by Liverpool. Journalist Mike Verweij provides an update on the situation.
It is unlikely that Ajax will sign Ugarte
Speaking to Soccer News, as quoted by Sports witnessthe Dutch journalist added that United have informed Ajax that Ugarte will not be available on a temporary deal. He said: “Ugarte, that name was certainly considered by Ajax.”
“Maybe he is still an option, but so far Ajax has heard from United that he is not available for loan. He was also in the starting line-up this week. That doesn’t make it any easier, of course, but I think he could be a very interesting player to loan out for six months.”
“(He) certainly remains an option. But I think Daley Blind is a more realistic option at the moment at number six. He can also play as a left back and left centre-back. And there are other names too. Ugarte has certainly been mentioned, but I think it will be very difficult.”
Final thoughts
Ugarte started the 2-2 draw against Burnley in midweek and his future could depend on the incoming agent. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been tipped as the frontrunner for the position, while Ruud van Nistelrooy and Michael Carrick are also in the running.
During the Dutch manager’s four-match interim spell in the 2024/25 season, the Uruguayan was a mainstay in the team, starting every match. As such, Ugarte’s fate could change in the coming days.
Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
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