Manuel Ugarte: Ajax’s move for Man United midfielder on the rocks | OneFootball

Manchester United are likely to streamline their squad this year after removing much of the deadwood in the summer of 2025. Alejandro Garnacho and Antony were offloaded permanently, while Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana were sent out on loan.

The Red Devils subsequently strengthened their attack, adding Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to their squad. The midfield is expected to be on the English giants’ agenda this year, especially since the position has looked like a weak link in the team this season.

Several candidates have been touted as possible solutions to United’s woes, while a couple of players could also be on their way. Casemiro’s contract expires at the end of this season and he has not signed a new deal yet.

Manuel Ugarte, meanwhile, has struggled for chances this season and is also heavily linked with an exit this month.

Ugarte’s Old Trafford woes

The Uruguayan was signed in the summer of 2024 as Casemiro’s possible successor, but has since seen the Brazilian relegate him to the bench. This season, Ugarte has registered 16 appearances in all competitions for United, eight of which were starts.

Manuel Ugarte Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The 24 year old has failed to live up to expectations since arriving at the Theatre of Dreams and his future now remains up in the air. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Galatasaray are interested in a move for Ugarte this month.

It has also been reported that Ajax are interested in the Uruguayan. The Eredivisie side are looking for a replacement for James McConnell, whose loan deal has reportedly been cut short by Liverpool. Journalist Mike Verweij has provided an update on the situation.

Ajax unlikely to sign Ugarte

Speaking to Soccer News, as cited by Sport Witness, the Dutch journalist added that United have informed Ajax that Ugarte will not be available on a temporary deal. He said: “Ugarte, that name has definitely been considered by Ajax.”

“Perhaps he’s still an option, but so far Ajax has heard from United that he’s not available for loan. He was also in the starting lineup this week. That doesn’t make it any easier, of course, but I think he could be a very interesting player to loan out for six months.”

“(He) certainly remains an option. But I think Daley Blind is a more realistic option at number six right now. He can also play as a left-back and left center back. And there are other names as well. Ugarte has certainly been mentioned, but I think it’s going to be very difficult.”

Final Thoughts

Ugarte started the 2-2 draw against Burnley in midweek, and his future could depend on the incoming caretaker manager. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been tipped as the frontrunner for the position, while Ruud van Nistelrooy and Michael Carrick are also in the race.

During the Dutch manager’s four-match interim reign in the 2024/25 season, the Uruguayan was a mainstay in the team, starting every game. As such, Ugarte’s fortunes could change in the coming days.

Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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