Manchester United are now edging closer to a clear decision on Manuel Ugarte, with fresh developments suggesting his exit is not just likely, but actively being worked on behind the scenes.
The 24-year-old has struggled to establish himself since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain for around €50m (£43m) in 2024. Despite his reputation as one of South America’s most reliable defensive midfielders, his role at Old Trafford has steadily diminished.
This season, he has made 22 appearances in all competitions, but only eight of those have come as a starter. He not even left the bench in United’s last two matches under Michael Carrick.
That lack of involvement has shaped both his own stance and the club’s thinking heading into the summer. As we have already reported, a decision has been made. Now, reports in Uruguay says it’s just a matter of time.
Manchester United now pushing for sale
Earlier reports indicated speculation around conditions to struck a deal, but the latest information suggests the process is already underway.
According to Uruguayan journalist Rodri Vázquez, Ugarte’s time at the club is effectively running out, with talks scheduled in the coming days to accelerate his departure. “His days are numbered at Manchester United”, he writes.
His representative, Jorge Chijane, is expected to meet with Jorge Mendes to work on the next steps.
Crucially, Manchester United are aiming for a permanent sale rather than another loan. The expected fee is around €28m (£24m), a significant drop from the amount paid two years ago. That figure reflects both his limited role and the club’s desire to move quickly.
From a squad perspective, this aligns with a broader reset. Ugarte has not become a key part of Carrick’s plans, and keeping him would only reduce flexibility in the market.
Competition forming across Europe
Manuel Ugarte’s situation continues to draw interest from across Europe, and the list of suitors is evolving, according to the report.
Napoli is now firmly involved, building on previous reports from Uruguay that they were preparing a move. However, they are not alone. Also Atlético Madrid have now emerged as another leading contender, giving the race a different dimension.
This follows earlier interest from Juventus, who had already been monitoring the midfielder and planning to scout him during international duty. The presence of multiple clubs increases the likelihood of Manchester United securing a deal quickly.
There is also an important player-driven factor. Ugarte has already rejected approaches from less competitive leagues, prioritising a move within Europe’s top competitions. Both Italy and Spain fit that profile.
What happens next
Manuel Ugarte wants clarity before the World Cup, and that timeline is now shaping negotiations.
Manchester United are open to doing business, the player is ready to leave, and agents are beginning to move. Those three elements rarely align so clearly unless a transfer is close.
The fee may still shift depending on interest, especially if more clubs formally enter the race. Even so, the direction is now obvious.
For Manchester United, this looks like a case of cutting losses early and reallocating resources. As for Ugarte, it is an opportunity to reset his trajectory at a club where he can play regularly again.
