Manchester United's midfield is set for a shake-up this summer, with Manuel Ugarte expected to be on the move. Despite arriving just last August for a fee that could rise to £50.5 million, the Uruguayan international has struggled to cement his place at Old Trafford and is now reportedly on the transfer list.
Dubbed a 'midfield engine' for his national team, the 25-year-old's time in Manchester has been underwhelming. His recent start in a defeat to Leeds United, filling in for the injured Kobbie Mainoo, only highlighted his difficulties, extending a poor run of form. With United's new hierarchy, INEOS, looking to reshape the squad, recouping funds from his sale is seen as a priority.
So, where could the tenacious midfielder land? While links to Premier League side Newcastle United have surfaced, recent reports suggest his future is more likely abroad. A quartet of European clubs are emerging as the frontrunners for his signature: Dutch giants Ajax, Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray, and Italian sides Napoli and Juventus.
His next move may wait until after Uruguay's World Cup campaign concludes, but one thing is clear: United are ready to cut their losses and reinvest, making Ugarte one of the first major dominoes to fall in what promises to be a busy transfer window for the Red Devils.
