European Powerhouse Makes Bold Move for Man Utd Star Midfielder
Manchester United have reportedly received an inquiry from Ajax concerning Manuel Ugarte as the January 2026 transfer window approaches its closing stages.
Ugarte has maintained a limited role at United this campaign, featuring in 18 of 24 possible matches across all competitions while only starting nine of those appearances.
His opportunities on the pitch may remain restricted, given Ruben Amorim's exit and Michael Carrick's interim appointment, which could allow Kobbie Mainoo to reclaim his starting position after being marginalized by the previous manager.
The Athletic reports that Ajax have made contact regarding the potential of securing Ugarte on loan until the season's end. The Dutch club are looking for a defensive midfielder to strengthen their squad but prefer a short-term solution as Jordi Cruyff—the ex-Barcelona and Manchester United player—takes over as sporting director next month.
However, United seem reluctant to reduce their squad depth when no recruitment is currently planned. The report indicates that the Ugarte proposal has been "rejected thus far."
Man Utd Remain Focused on Summer Transfer Window
Man Utd Remain Focused on Summer Transfer Window
United are eager to secure a new central midfielder before next season begins, but January typically isn't the window for major signings and pursuing deals for Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba or Adam Wharton won't be simple.
Targeting any of these players, each potentially worth £100 million ($134.2 million), demands the extended timeframe that the summer transfer period provides.
The sole transfer United were reportedly considering this month was Antoine Semenyo, driven by opportunism due to his appealing release clause rather than urgent need. Once the Ghana forward indicated his preference to join Manchester City, the Red Devils withdrew and chose to preserve their resources instead of pursuing alternative targets.
Allowing Ugarte's departure now would necessitate bringing in a replacement to fill the squad void. The Uruguayan midfielder may have seldom started this season but remains the primary backup in central midfield behind Casemiro and the previously mentioned Mainoo.
Bruno Fernandes, who has no intention of leaving this month but might reassess his position in summer, has reverted to a more offensive No. 10 position since Amorim's departure from Old Trafford.
Whether Casemiro will renew his contract remains uncertain. The Brazilian ranks among the squad's highest earners and 35 appearances this season would activate an automatic 12-month extension—he requires 16 more with 16 matches remaining. Alternatively, negotiating a fresh contract to retain him at reduced financial cost might prove appealing, considering his renewed on-field significance.