There have been rumours surrounding a potential swap deal involving Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte this month.
Manchester United are reportedly planning to strengthen their midfield this year, suggesting growing concerns over their current options in the middle of the park.
Casemiro is expected to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, despite producing some impressive performances this term. Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround Manuel Ugarte’s future at Old Trafford.
Since his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024, Ugarte has struggled to establish consistency in United’s midfield.
With Michael Carrick set to remain in charge for the remainder of the season, the Uruguayan appears unlikely to feature regularly, particularly with the club competing solely in the Premier League.
United swap deal truth revealed after Ugarte switch rumours
As a result of his limited role, Ugarte has been linked with a January move, attracting interest from several clubs keen on securing his services either permanently or on loan.
Ajax are reportedly among those monitoring the situation as they seek midfield reinforcements following a disappointing Eredivisie campaign that has left them 18 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven. However, reports suggest the Dutch side are unlikely to pursue a deal.
There have also been rumours linking Ugarte with a potential swap deal involving Sunderland star Noah Sadiki this month.
However, according to The Mirror, Sunderland are not open to a deal involving their talented midfielder, who has made 16 appearances in the Premier League this term.
The Black Cats are said to not be keen on the prospect of signing Ugarte if it means they have to sell Sadiki, who only joined the club last summer from Union Saint-Gilloise.
Ugarte won’t leave this month
Carrick used Ugarte off the bench in his first game in charge against City but it feels unlikely that he will start many games under the new boss.
Still, even though United are only competing in one competition for the rest of the campaign, there are only four senior midfielders for the three spots in Carrick’s 4-2-3-1.
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Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are likely to start but Ugarte will be needed as Casemiro cannot always play full games and injuries could occur.
His future will be a talking point in the summer window, but it doesn’t really make sense for United to sell him now after their move to a three-man midfield.
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