Manchester United is focusing on rebuilding its midfield, and Manuel Ugarte is likely to be one of the players facing departure.
Ugarte joined Old Trafford from PSG in the summer of 2024, but the Uruguayan midfielder has yet to secure a regular spot in Ruben Amorim’s lineup.
This season, the 24-year-old has played 13 matches across all competitions, totaling 522 minutes, which averages out to about 40 minutes per match, highlighting his limited role.
With playing time still scarce, especially with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro as the preferred pairing when available, interest from clubs is starting to grow as January approaches.
Galatasaray has made inquiries regarding a loan for Ugarte, proposing a deal that includes a £22 million (€25 million) option to buy if they choose to make it permanent.
Galatasaray is not the only interested party.
According to Turkish publication Turkiye, as shared by Fotomac, Lyon and Napoli are also watching Ugarte’s situation closely.
These clubs are reportedly joining the pursuit as the transfer window nears, and United considers its midfield options for the second half of the season.
A move to Lyon would mean Ugarte’s return to Ligue 1, where he previously played for PSG before transferring to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Napoli has shown ongoing interest in United players and is now looking at the Uruguayan midfielder.
The Serie A champions previously expressed interest in Kobbie Mainoo and were seen as frontrunners to sign him in January, but it seems they have shifted focus away from that pursuit.
If Napoli is no longer prioritizing Mainoo, they may explore other midfield options, and Ugarte’s uncertain position at United could make him a target.
This situation is not ideal for Amorim, with Fernandes and Mainoo both currently unavailable, pushing United to rely on other options.
Jack and Tyler Fletcher have joined first-team training and matchday squads, and Toby Collyer has returned from his loan at West Brom.
With Lyon and Napoli now in the mix alongside Galatasaray, United may be in a better position to negotiate deals.
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