Manuel Ugarte: Bold claim surfaces over Napoli and United man | OneFootball

Manuel Ugarte is almost certain to leave Manchester United this summer after failing to make an impact at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are preparing for a midfield overhaul and their main target will be to sign an able replacement for Casemiro.

The Brazilian’s tenure at the Theatre of Dreams is coming to an end soon, and he will leave at the end of the season as a free agent. Casemiro has been outstanding for the Premier League giants of late and has started every game under caretaker manager Michael Carrick.

United are now third in the league table and have a superb chance of securing Champions League football. However, it is imperative that they fill the void that will emerge after Casemiro departs.

Ugarte was signed in the summer of 2024 with that exact plan in mind, but it is safe to say that the Uruguayan has not lived up to expectations so far.

A peripheral figure at Old Trafford

Ugarte caught the eye of European bigwigs following an impressive run with Sporting. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) came calling in the summer of 2023, but the player struggled to find his feet at the Parc des Princes.

United were looking for Casemiro’s replacement in the summer of 2024 following a disappointing campaign in which he had displayed signs of regression. The 34 year old was even left out of the squad for the FA Cup final, which United won against Manchester City.

The Red Devils want a long-term partner for Kobbie Mainoo, and Ugarte was identified as that man. Unfortunately, the Uruguayan struggled to impress under former manager Erik ten Hag. Even the arrival of Ruben Amorim, who Ugarte had worked with at Sporting, failed to improve his performances. Meanwhile, Casemiro relegating him to the bench this season, further adding to his woes.

Ugarte’s fortunes have not changed after the Portuguese head coach was replaced by caretaker manager Michael Carrick in January. The 24 year old is yet to start a game under the Englishman, having managed just 65 minutes of first-team action in six appearances.

Manuel Ugarte Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Juventus are eyeing Ugarte this summer, while Galatasaray have also been named as his suitors. Acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano has now provided an update on the situation.

Napoli offered chance to sign Ugarte in 2025

According to Romano, Napoli were offered the chance to sign Ugarte last summer, but they opted not to proceed. Speaking recently as cited by Area Napoli, the Italian journalist said: “Ugarte is set to leave Manchester United. The player was offered to Napoli back in August 2025, but they chose not to pursue the deal. He has also been offered to other clubs.”

Romano also confirmed Juventus’ interest in Ugarte, adding: “Juve: these are moves we’re considering in case there’s any interest. Ugarte could be an opportunity; we’ll see if anyone decides to go ahead.”

Napoli signed Kevin De Bruyne on a Bosman move last summer, so their decision not to pursue Ugarte is understood. However, with the Belgian set to turn 35 this summer, the Serie A giants could be tempted to make a move for the Uruguayan.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person has named Napoli among the clubs keeping a close eye on Ugarte this year.

Final Thoughts

United are reportedly looking to raise £100 million through player sales this summer as they prepare to invest heavily in the middle of the park. Ugarte is a peripheral figure and not part of United’s plans, so perhaps it is in the best interests of all parties that he continues his career elsewhere.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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