Manchester United are prepared to offload midfielder Manuel Ugarte when the January transfer market opens, according to fresh reports. The Uruguayan international, who cost the club an initial £42.2 million, has failed to secure a regular starting spot this season.
United's January Clear-Out Plans
ESPN reports that the Red Devils 'will listen to offers' for the 24-year-old next month. Ugarte is said to be part of a group of players who could be sold to raise funds, with Kobbie Mainoo, Joshua Zirkzee, and Tyrell Malacia also named as potential departures.
The move is understood to be a strategic play by the club's hierarchy to 'unlock some funds' for new signings. United are actively monitoring several midfield alternatives, including Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, and Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller.
Amorim's Honest Assessment of Ugarte's Struggles
United head coach Ruben Amorim has been publicly candid about Ugarte's difficulties adapting to life at Old Trafford. Speaking last month, the manager admitted the player was 'struggling at the moment' and needed to improve, particularly in training.
'You are here longer than me and you can sense that a lot of very good players come here and sometimes they struggle,' Amorim stated. 'He is struggling at the moment, but it is our job to try to help our players... he needs to adapt and he needs to improve, especially in training.'
Ugarte's limited impact is reflected in his playing time, having started just two Premier League matches this campaign. He arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2024 on a five-year deal, with an option for a further year, in a transfer that could eventually reach £50.7 million with add-ons.
Criticism and the Road Ahead
The midfielder's performances have also drawn sharp criticism from pundits. In September, former Chelsea star Craig Burley delivered a scathing assessment on ESPN, branding Ugarte a 'wet blanket' and questioning his contribution.
Despite the criticism, Ugarte has made 55 appearances for Manchester United across all competitions since his arrival. His potential sale in January would mark a swift and expensive misstep in the club's recent transfer strategy, as they look to reshape their squad under Amorim's leadership.
