Manuel Ugarte is reportedly open to the idea of a Manchester United loan exit this January; however, a former Red is standing in his way.
Since arriving at Old Trafford in the summer of 2024, Manuel Ugarte has struggled to find his feet for Manchester United, and could already be set for an exit.
The Uruguayan has started all of United’s last five Premier League fixtures, but it is thought that a January exit may still be on the cards.
Due to injuries keeping Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo out of the squad, Ugarte has been further thrust into the limelight, but has seemingly struggled to match the standard of the English top-flight.
With United reportedly in search of a new midfielder, either this month or in the summer, Ugarte could be moved on, and he is currently on the radar of one of Europe’s most historic club’s.
Ajax open to Ugarte loan
As reported by Dutch outlet VI, Ajax are considering a move for the United midfielder, although he is one of several options, with former Red Daley Blind also being a possibility.
Due to Ugarte’s substantial wage, it is unlikely that the infamous Dutch side would be able to purchase the Uruguayan’s services on a permanent deal, with a loan being more suitable.
The report states that the 24-year-old is not averse to a transfer to Ajax, with the greater challenge being finding an agreement between the two clubs.
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, United’s £43m midfielder is seeking more game time, and may have to leave Old Trafford to do so.
Positive news for United midfielders
Now that Ruben Amorim has been sacked by United, there is every possibility that the Reds return to a more familiar system of a 4-2-3-1, or a 4-3-3.
This would allow for one extra midfielder in the starting XI, as opposed to Amorim’s system, which only ever allowed for two.
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During United’s 2-2 draw to Burnley, Darren Fletcher set the Reds up in a 4-2-3-1, with Ugarte and Casemiro at the base of the midfield, which may be a sign of things to come.
It will be interesting to see whether there are any developments regarding any January exits for the Reds, or whether a change in manager will encourage certain United stars to stay put.
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