[EPN NFINow reporter Yoon Dong-geun] Club sources say Manchester United has internally agreed to permit Ugarte to leave during this summer’s transfer window. The expected fee is around £25 million (approximately $37.6 million) — roughly 50.1 billion KRW (approximately $37.6 million).
United paid £50 million (approximately $75.2 million) to Paris Saint-Germain to sign Ugarte in the summer of 2024, a move that marked the club’s first major signing under INEOS ownership. He signed a five-year contract through 2029 amid high expectations.
But Ugarte never established himself as a regular starter. The arrival of manager Rúben Amorim generated interest, yet Ugarte struggled to displace established midfielders such as Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.
His situation didn’t improve under Michael Carrick. As Kobbie Mainoo took control of the midfield, Ugarte was largely reduced to substitute appearances and limited minutes. Except for the stretch when Mainoo was sidelined by injury, Ugarte failed to secure a regular starting role.
Ugarte started just eight league matches, recording one win, three draws and four losses. Outside a lone victory over Newcastle United last December, his win rate stood at just 12.5%.
Local outlets have questioned Ugarte’s adaptation to life at Old Trafford. One report suggested the squad needs “a higher level of quality” and called for further reinforcements in midfield.
Manchester United is planning an official midfield reshuffle this summer and has confirmed it will part ways with Casemiro. The club is targeting a proven midfielder with Premier League experience; names linked include Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba.
Given the need to raise transfer funds, Ugarte is now expected to be sold for a relatively modest fee. After two years, the midfielder looks set to lose the “key signing” tag.
Photos: Ugarte’s social media, Yonhap/Reuters, AP
