Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte is expected to be out for 9-12 months | OneFootball

Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte is reportedly expected to be out of action for up to 12 months following an injury at the World Cup.

The Man United star played for Uruguay against Spain in the early hours of today in their last group game, and he had to be stretchered off in the 1-0 defeat.

Ugarte suffered a left knee injury, and a calf ripple was also seen, which typically results in a tear.

Scans and tests will be carried out in the coming hours to determine the extent of the injury blow, but the Red Devils midfielder is definitely set for a long spell on the sidelines.

It deals a huge blow on Man United’s transfer plans as they were looking to sell Ugarte this summer.

Michael Carrick is not counting on the Uruguayan for next season, but his injury means suitors will have to wait before making any transfer move for him.

The Old Trafford club have already agreed a deal to sign Brazilian midfielder Ederson, with the 26-year-old set to join from Atalanta after the World Cup.

They have been looking to agree a deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes too, but the Hammers’ demands have proven prohibitive and they are moving on to other targets.

The Red Devils have been linked with Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, but getting a deal done for the Germany international could also prove tricky.

Man United would also be interested in making a move for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes if the Magpies express a willingness to sell the Brazilian.

They are likely to sign two midfielders following Ugarte’s long-term injury, and they may have to make major sales to get it done.