Manuel Ugarte: January offer on the table for Manchester United midfield star | OneFootball

Manchester United’s engine room has long been a point of weakness.

Poor recruitment has left the midfield lacking the dynamism required at the highest level, which has made the position increasingly a liability.

Experience carrying United

At present, Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim leans heavily on Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes as his two‑man midfield pivot. Their technical quality and wealth of experience have proved useful for the Portuguese tactician.

Yet, while the duo have been serviceable, it is clear that United’s midfield lacks the physicality, athleticism, and mobility that Amorim craves at the heart of his side.

This shortfall has inevitably led to United being linked with a host of young, talented midfielders.

Ugarte and Mainoo’s United futures in doubt

However, as fresh names continue to be touted, the futures of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo remain uncertain.

Hardly a day passes without Mainoo being linked with a move away, with Napoli persistently circling. Ugarte, similarly, has failed to secure a key role under Amorim and has attracted interest from Galatasaray.

The Turkish giants may not, however, enjoy a clear run at the Uruguayan’s signature.

Nice enter the Ugarte race

According to Justin Favre via Jeunesfooteux, OGC Nice, owned by United co‑owners INEOS, have already enquired about a loan deal for Ugarte. Favre explains:

“OGC Nice has inquired with Manchester United about a loan for the Uruguayan midfielder, Manuel Ugarte. The discussions were facilitated by the direct link between the two institutions, both controlled by Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS ecosystem, which already owns OGC Nice and holds a 25% stake in Manchester United.”

Given his struggles at Old Trafford, allowing Ugarte to depart, even temporarily, would be a sensible move.

Nice, who themselves have been faltering, could benefit from his presence, while United would save on wages and create space for a new arrival.

That opening could pave the way for United to pursue Conor Gallagher on loan, a deal many anticipate the club will chase.

Ugarte unconvinced

Yet, as Favre notes, there is a complication:

“While Nice has opened an inquiry, a loan to the French Riviera seems unlikely in the short term. According to our information, Manuel Ugarte is not particularly keen on the idea of joining Les Aiglons (The Eagles), despite the prospect of potentially more playing time.”

United cannot persist with Ugarte

Seventeen months into his United career, Ugarte has failed to justify the £42 million fee paid for him.

His inability to impose himself has left United desperate for upgrades. If he were pragmatic, he would recognise the writing on the wall and accept that his fate at Old Trafford is sealed.

As it is a World Cup year, playing regularly is essential. For Ugarte, a move away would not only revive his career but also enhance his chances of being at his best to represent Uruguay on the biggest stage.

All in all, whatever happens—Galatasaray or Nice—for United, sanctioning his departure would be both logical and beneficial.

Featured image Richard Pelham via Getty Images

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