One Manchester United star is set to part ways with the club alongside fellow midfielder Casemiro in the summer of 2026, with United looking to make changes.
Manchester United saw major changes to their attacking line in the previous summer transfer windows bringing Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško to the club to stabilise United’s efficiency in front of goal.
However, fans have been calling out for the club to switch their attention to the midfield, particularly after former boss Ruben Amorim was so heavily dependant on the midfield duo of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes.
The club recently announced that Casemiro will move on from United come the end of the season after four years with the club and his contract coming to an end.
But another midfielder is expected to make a move in the same window, with him just not being the right fit for United.
Ugarte set for summer move
Uruguayan midfielder, Manuel Ugarte looks set to leave United at the end of the season as The Athletic reports.
The 24-year-old signed from Paris Saint Germain for £42 million under Erik ten Hag, who also brought in Casemiro, but Ugarte’s career in a red shirt has been underwhelming.
Ugarte has totalled nine minutes from Michael Carrick’s first two games in charge. Including a full 90 on the bench in United’s brilliant 3-2 victory at the Emirates against a strong Arsenal side.
Although the arrival of his former boss Ruben Amorim sparked confidence, Ugarte’s form never hit the heights of his Sporting days as he eventually found himself starting games as a substitute.
Now with the club having confidence in Kobbie Mainoo again since the arrival of Carrick as the club’s interim manager, Ugarte’s exit looks even more certain with Galatasaray and Ajax both keeping tabs on the South American.
A January move seems doubtful as United are less likely to bring in a long term replacement within the window, so a summer move suits both parties best.
Out with the old, in with the new
If United achieve their goal of securing Champions League football, their midfield would need sufficient strengthening. Whilst Mainoo and Fernandes remain as integral parts to the squad, recruitment elsewhere will be essential if United want to maintain their good form.
Fans have often speculated over which profiles across Europe are the best fit to replace Casemiro and Ugarte, who are known for being aggressive ball winners for their side.
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Names such as Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton have circulated the fanbase with them proving their ability already in the Premier League, yet their price-tags are expected to be heavy.
Having an elite carrier will be imperative to United’s cohesion in the core of the squad, but with no confirmation on who United will appoint as manager, it is difficult for fans to pinpoint a tactical focus for recruitment.
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