Newcastle United linked with move for Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte
Newcastle United are reportedly monitoring the situation of Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte ahead of a potential summer transfer. According to a report from Caught Offside, the Uruguayan international is pushing for a move away from Old Trafford in search of more consistent playing time, with the Red Devils said to be open to selling him for a fee in the region of €40 million.
The 24-year-old only joined Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain last summer in a deal worth up to £50.7 million but has struggled to establish himself, making just six substitute appearances under interim manager Michael Carrick. This has led to speculation that he is not part of the club's long-term plans, prompting a likely departure after just one season. Newcastle's interest, which was also present during the January window, emerges amid significant uncertainty surrounding the future of their own key midfielder, Sandro Tonali.
TEAMtalk insider Graeme Bailey has reported that Newcastle could reluctantly sanction the sale of Tonali to help fund a major squad rebuild desired by manager Eddie Howe. The Italian international, 25, is a target for several top European clubs including Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Real Madrid, with Juventus also making fresh contact. Newcastle are understood to be holding out for a fee of at least £80 million for Tonali, whose preference is believed to be a return to Serie A if he departs.
The potential acquisition of Ugarte would represent a strategic pivot for Newcastle, aiming to replace a potential outgoing star with a player familiar with the Premier League, albeit one seeking to revive his career. Ugarte's proposed valuation marks a significant loss on Manchester United's initial investment, reflecting his difficult adaptation. However, his profile as a tenacious defensive midfielder could suit the demands of Eddie Howe's system, provided he can recapture the form he showed previously at Sporting CP and PSG.
Newcastle are not alone in their pursuit, however. The report states that Aston Villa, Juventus, and Galatasaray are also keen on Ugarte, with the Italian giants currently seen as leading the race for his signature. This competition could complicate any move from St James' Park, especially if a bidding war ensues. The broader context at Newcastle involves potential high-profile sales beyond Tonali, with Arsenal also linked with a move for winger Anthony Gordon, valued at around £95 million.
Howe's desire for a squad overhaul is clear, but the club's financial landscape, influenced by Profit and Sustainability Rules, necessitates significant player sales before major incomings can be sanctioned. The situation places the futures of Tonali and Ugarte in a direct, albeit speculative, relationship. Should Tonali depart for a major fee, Newcastle would have both the funds and the urgent need to reinforce their midfield, making a move for a player like Ugarte more financially viable and strategically logical.
