Manuel Ugarte: Napoli ready to derail United’s midfield plans | OneFootball

Given the impact Manuel Ugarte has had since signing for Manchester United, it is not a surprise to read about INEOS wanting him out in the summer.

Signed from Paris Saint-Germain for an initial £42.1 million as Casemiro’s successor, the Uruguayan has flattered to deceive under three separate managers.

Erik ten Hag, who was the boss when the defensive midfielder joined, never really wanted the club to sign him and, as a result, did not fully trust him.

When the Dutchman was shown the door and Ruben Amorim was appointed, it was expected to herald the 24-year-old’s renaissance, given the pair’s excellent relationship from their time at Sporting CP.

Manuel Ugarte has been a major disappointment

That did not prove to be the case as the Portuguese kept his faith in Casemiro. And his fortunes have not improved under Michael Carrick either.

The current caretaker head coach is yet to hand the Uruguay international a start since his appointment.

United’s co-owners are well aware that they are likely to take a hit from his sale, but are keen to recoup as much as possible.

Premier League clubs and teams in Italy are all interested. Napoli have recently joined the race, but as per Napoli Magazine, the United No.25 is only a backup option.

Napoli see Manuel Ugarte as a backup option

The defending Serie A champions would prefer to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes. Incidentally, the Brazilian is a target for United to replace Ugarte.

“Napoli is still working on the transfer market. Jorge Mendes has proposed Ugarte, the Uruguayan midfielder who will leave Manchester United.

“Napoli has taken note, but has other priorities and, at least for now, hasn’t pursued any further. For midfield, they’re working on other names, such as the Brazilian Gomes.”

United were banking on the sale of Manuel Ugarte in the summer, and the Wolves ace has remained a long-term target, with the 20-time English league champions trying to sign him in January.

Antonio Conte’s side could strike a double blow to United’s heart with such a step. INEOS need to push harder, especially to land Gomes.

Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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