Manchester United have suffered a devastating setback in their plans to offload one of their struggling first-team stars this summer.
Manuel Ugarte started for Uruguay in their decisive final World Cup group-stage clash against Spain.
Uruguay ultimately fell to defeat after veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera committed a costly error that gifted Spain the breakthrough.
However, the biggest concern arrived moments before half-time.
Ugarte overextended himself while attempting a challenge before landing awkwardly on his knee.
The midfielder immediately signalled for medical assistance and had to be stretchered off the pitch.
According to a report, Ugarte could now be sidelined for the next nine to 12 months as his injury points towards an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. A visible ripple in his calf has reportedly heightened concerns.
INEOS had been actively exploring opportunities to offload the 24-year-old during the current transfer window.
Ugarte has struggled to justify expectations since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.
He was initially viewed as the long-term successor to Casemiro but has never fully adapted to the relentless intensity of Premier League football.
Following this devastating setback, any realistic chance of completing a transfer this summer may now have disappeared.
Given the expected recovery period, there are genuine fears that he may not feature at all during the upcoming campaign.
United will now be forced to keep him on their books while continuing to cover his wages, creating another unwanted financial burden for INEOS.
The Red Devils may now have little choice but to recruit at least two new midfielders before the transfer window closes or risk entering the new season dangerously short of options.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
