Napoli and Atletico Madrid are very interested in signing Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte during the summer transfer window, according to journalist Rodri Vazquez.
The 25-year-old has had a tough career with the Red Devils since his move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, and he is currently a regular on the bench under interim boss Michael Carrick.
Ugarte has played second fiddle to Casemiro for the number six position for most of the season.
Casemiro is poised to leave when his contract expires on June 30, but the club’s hierarchy are prepared to pursue a marquee replacement rather than depending on Ugarte’s services.
Hence, it is unsurprising that the former Sporting CP man could head for the exit door.
Vazquez claims that Napoli and Atletico are ‘most interested’ in landing the experienced defensive midfielder. His ‘days are numbered’ at United, given talks are ongoing on the agent side over a transfer.
His representative Jorge Chijane will meet super-agent Jorge Mendes in the coming days to sort out a move. United paid an initial £42 million for Ugarte, but they are prepared to sell him for just £24m.
United prepared to cut their losses on Ugarte
Ugarte arrived at United with a big reputation as a hard-working defensive midfielder.
Despite possessing a strong work rate, he has looked out of sorts in the Premier League. His positioning has come into question several times, while he has also been guilty of gifting possession in his own half.
This has meant that Casemiro has been an assured starter in the no.6 role at the age of 34. The Brazilian has barely put a foot wrong in recent months and has played 90 minutes on multiple occasions.
With just 800 league minutes this term, Ugarte’s stock has taken a hit. United could be prepared to cut their losses, though they could still demand a higher fee than reported by journalist Vazquez.
The reported price (£24m) could be United’s initial valuation for the South American star. They would surely want additional performance add-ons from Napoli, Atletico or any other suitor this summer.
United have a good working relationship with Napoli, having already loaned out striker Rasmus Hojlund last summer with an obligation to buy if they qualify for next season’s Champions League.
The Naples outfit could have the upper hand over Atletico in the pursuit of Ugarte.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
