Manchester United are reportedly prepared to sell Manuel Ugarte this summer, even if it means accepting a significant financial loss on the Uruguayan midfielder.
According to The Sun, the club are open to moving on from Ugarte regardless of whether they can recoup the full fee they originally paid for him.
United signed Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 in a deal worth an initial £42.3m, with add-ons potentially pushing the total package beyond £50m.
The midfielder arrived at Old Trafford with a strong reputation as a ball-winning specialist, but he has struggled to establish himself as a consistent presence in the side.
Last season, Ugarte managed only 10 league starts, highlighting just how rapidly his standing at the club has diminished under the new management setup.
The financial complications surrounding any potential exit extend well beyond the original transfer fee paid to secure his services from the French capital.
Senior United sources reportedly believe that Ugarte’s £120,000-a-week salary could present a significant obstacle when it comes to finding a willing buyer this summer.
United are not actively pushing him around the market, as doing so would risk weakening their own negotiating position and inviting lower offers from interested clubs.
Any club made aware that a player is surplus to requirements will typically look to exploit that situation, driving down the asking price considerably in negotiations.
There remains a realistic possibility that Ugarte stays at Old Trafford beyond the close of the transfer window if no suitable offer materialises on United’s terms.
The situation appears to form part of a broader restructuring effort under Michael Carrick, who has already overeen the departure of Casemiro from the club.
Sky Sports recently reported that Ugarte could be included in a major summer clear-out as Carrick looks to reshape the squad in his image.
United have been linked with midfielders including Mateus Fernandes and Felix Nmecha, suggesting Carrick wants greater technical control and tactical flexibility through the middle of the pitch.
Ugarte is not considered a poor player, but the general feeling is that he does not suit the specific style and structure Carrick is looking to implement at Old Trafford.
United remain willing to listen to offers, but any deal will depend on finding a club prepared to meet both a realistic transfer fee and cover his substantial weekly wage.
