Manchester United are reportedly prepared to take a financial hit on Manuel Ugarte as Michael Carrick continues reshaping his midfield this summer. According to The Sun, United are open to selling the Uruguay international even if it means accepting less than they paid for him.
The club signed Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for an initial fee of £42.3 million, with add‑ons that could push the total above £50 million.
This creates a difficult situation. Ugarte arrived with a strong reputation as a ball‑winning midfielder, but he has failed to fully convince at Old Trafford.
Last season he started only ten matches, illustrating how quickly his role has diminished.
Wages could complicate Ugarte’s Manchester United exit
The biggest obstacle is not just the transfer fee. Senior United sources say his £120,000‑a‑week wage could make a move harder to achieve.
United are not actively pushing him onto the market because they do not want to weaken their negotiating position—a sensible approach.
If clubs sense a player is unwanted, offers tend to drop rapidly.
There is also a realistic chance Ugarte remains beyond the transfer window. While United may be open to a sale, they are not desperate enough to accept any deal at any price.
Carrick wants a different midfield
This is part of a broader shift under Carrick. United have already moved on from Casemiro, and Sky Sports recently reported that Ugarte could be included in a major summer clear‑out.
The club have also been linked with midfielders such as Mateus Fernandes and Felix Nmecha, suggesting Carrick seeks more technical control, energy and tactical flexibility in the middle of the park.
United’s stance is understandable. Ugarte is not a bad player, but he may simply not fit the type of midfield Carrick wishes to build.
United are willing to listen, but any deal will depend on finding a club prepared to cover both a transfer fee and his substantial wages.
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