Manuel Ugarte has made his verdict regarding his stance in talks over a potential exit with interest from a Champions League club.
Manchester United’s midfield is set to see major changes as injuries, transfers, suspensions and academy graduates all make their impact.
Most recently, captain Bruno Fernandes suffered an injury, which forced him off in United’s 2-1 loss to Aston Villa. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo has also been sidelined with a minor injury.
This opened the door for more game time for Manuel Ugarte and academy graduate, Jack Fletcher. Ugarte’s time at United has been underwhelming despite having a history of game time under Rúben Amorim at Sporting CP.
The 24-year-old has gained interest in a move away from Old Trafford, and the midfielder has made his stance clear amid the talks over a departure.
Ugarte open to Galatasaray move
Ugarte seems destined for a move away from Old Trafford, especially after his poor performance against Wolves. Fans are calling for him to be dropped for either of the Fletcher brothers or even Sékou Koné.
According to Fanatik, Turkish giants Galatasaray have emerged as favourites for the Uruguayan with the option of Champions League football being a heavy factor in the conversation.
Galatasaray are considering a loan move for Ugarte, making it a quicker process to get the deal done.
The move is appealing to the midfielder as he is very keen on the idea of playing in the Champions League again. This also follows United finishing 15th in the Premier League last season, leaving them with just one game per week this season.
Ugarte is open to having a rotational role for the Turkish giants as he could play alongside the likes of Ilkay Gundogan, Leroy Sane and Davinson Sanchez.
A permanent move could follow
Ugarte put on an impressive display in United’s Boxing Day 1-0 Victory against Newcastle in the absence of Mainoo and Fernandes, but struggled against Wolves on Tuesday evening.
If Ugarte makes his move to Turkey and impresses, the move could become permanent as the deal is expected to be a loan with a buy option.
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Ugarte’s aggressive nature could suit the Turkish playing style, and his willingness to run could compensate for the ageing legs of Gundogan and Lucas Torreira in midfield.
Meanwhile, United will prioritise a move for a midfielder who they see to be more suited to the required profile in Amorim’s system, even as he has begun to pivot away from his persistent 3-4-2-1 formation.
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