Turkish giants, Galatasaray, are optimistic that they will be able to sign a Manchester United star in January, but the sacking of Rúben Amorim could end any potential deal.
The sacking of Rúben Amorim right as the January transfer window opened could potentially throw all of Manchester United’s plans into disarray.
Following his now former side’s 1-1 draw against Leeds, he launched into an explosive rant in his post-match press conference, expressing his frustrations surrounding his lack of control at the club, stating he wanted to be the manager of Manchester United, not the coach.
While directing direct frustrations at the Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, he also indirectly jabbed the Director of Scouting, Christopher Vivell, over transfer frustrations. The club reportedly set aside £65 million for a January pursuit of Antoine Semenyo, but after now missing out on him, the report of there now being no money to spend in January would have certainly rubbed Amorim the wrong way.
It is clear to see that Manchester United have been in dire need of midfield reinforcements to further reinforce their European football push, made all the more apparent after the injuries of both Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
Galatasaray optimistic about Manuel Ugarte signing
There is no doubt that Manuel Ugarte has struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League since joining from PSG in 2024.
Many thought that when he reunited with his former Sporting boss, Ruben Amorim, Ugarte would turn his fortunes around at Old Trafford, but unfortunately, that has not been the case.
According to Sport Witness, Galatasaray are optimistic of getting a deal done for the Uruguayan, with the outlet reporting that Manchester United are open to accepting a loan deal with a £26 million mandatory clause.
While the Turkish side hasn’t ruled this opportunity out, it’s reported that they want to know whether they’ll qualify for the Champions League knockout stages before committing to such a deal. They currently sit 18th in the league phase, three points above the elimination places.
Ugarte may stay after Amorim sacking
The sacking of Amorim on Monday morning has thrown everything up in the air, as the club will now prioritise their interim manager going forward.
As reported by Mail Sport, Kobbie Mainoo, Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte were desperate to leave the club if Amorim had stayed.
Read More: Rio Ferdinand names four Ruben Amorim replacements after Man Utd sack, including wildcard option
While the sacking of Amorim may play a significant role in these players staying at the club, considering Manchester United’s midfield options, or lack thereof, it was always more likely that the Uruguayan would stay at the club past the January deadline.
Even if Manchester United make the unlikely move of signing a midfielder this January, as seen by the links with Rúben Neves and Conor Gallagher, the side need as much depth as possible should they wish to secure Champions League football next season and attract the marquee names such as Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson who they will look to sign in the summer.
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