Manchester United open to selling Manuel Ugarte with Galatasaray leading chase
Manchester United are prepared to sanction the departure of midfielder Manuel Ugarte this summer, with Galatasaray positioned as the frontrunners for his signature, according to TEAMtalk. The Uruguayan international, signed from Paris Saint-Germain for £50 million less than a year ago, has seen his opportunities severely limited under interim manager Michael Carrick and is now seeking regular first-team football.
Sources indicate that while Carrick rates the 24-year-old highly, the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo has pushed Ugarte down the pecking order at Old Trafford. He has yet to start a match since Carrick took charge, leading the player and the club to consider a parting of ways. United are understood to be open to moving him on as they plan a restructuring of their midfield options for next season.
Galatasaray are pushing hard to finally secure a deal after coming close to signing Ugarte during the January transfer window. The Turkish club maintained strong interest after those talks and are now preparing a renewed effort for the summer. A move to Istanbul is currently viewed as the most probable outcome, with United having no reservations about letting him leave.
Ugarte's representatives are also exploring other options across Europe. Several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur, have been informed of his situation and retain an interest. Juventus are also long-term admirers of the defensive midfielder. Aston Villa's potential need hinges on Ross Barkley's future, while Newcastle may seek a replacement if Sandro Tonali departs. Tottenham's interest would be contingent on their Premier League survival under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.
The situation underscores a swift change in fortunes for Ugarte at United. His substantial transfer fee and wages represented a significant investment, but his failure to establish himself under the new coaching setup has prompted a reassessment. With Carrick the firm favourite to take the managerial role permanently, Ugarte's path to the starting eleven appears blocked, making a transfer the logical next step for his career.
United's willingness to sell so soon after a major purchase points to a pragmatic approach from the club's hierarchy, led by INEOS, as they look to rectify past recruitment missteps. The potential departure would free up considerable funds and squad space for a new midfield target, with the club also linked with a move for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande. For Galatasaray, securing Ugarte would represent a major coup and a statement of intent in their domestic and European ambitions.
The coming months will likely see formal offers materialize, with Galatasaray hoping their persistent interest and the promise of a starring role will convince Ugarte to choose Süper Lig football. For United, the focus will shift to recouping as much of their initial investment as possible to reinvest in a squad that has underperformed this season.
