Fabrizio Romano: Manuel Ugarte Could Leave Man Utd Alongside Casemiro

Manuel Ugarte is being linked with a summer exit from Manchester United after limited minutes under the interim boss and reported interest from Italian clubs. Betting angle: gamble on Ugarte to leave (transfer OUT) and on Manchester United to recruit at least two holding midfielders before next season — markets likely to shorten on a Serie A destination and on United signing midfield reinforcements.

Manuel Ugarte Linked With Summer Exit From Manchester United

Manchester United face the prospect of losing Manuel Ugarte this summer amid reported interest from clubs in Italy and other markets. The 24-year-old arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for up to £50.5m but has struggled for consistent game time this season.

Why Ugarte Is One to Watch

Ugarte has made 20 appearances this season, including nine starts, but has been an unused substitute in recent Premier League fixtures. Since the interim manager took charge in January, Ugarte has logged just 27 minutes across three substitute outings, a dramatic reduction that has triggered transfer speculation.

January Interest and Ongoing Movement

Reports indicate there was interest from Galatasaray during the January window, though no deal materialised. That inactivity has not ended summer attention, with multiple clubs in Italy said to be considering a move for the Uruguayan midfielder.

How Casemiro's Departure Impacts United's Midfield Plans

Casemiro is set to leave at the end of his contract in June, creating a clear vacancy in the holding midfield ranks. United have been operating a 4-2-3-1 formation relying heavily on three defensive midfielders — Ugarte, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. If both Casemiro and Ugarte exit, the club will likely be forced to recruit at least two midfielders to maintain depth, especially with Champions League football incoming.

Transfer Market Consequences

The potential double departure shifts United’s recruitment priorities. Expect the club to target proven options capable of thriving in the Premier League and providing immediate defensive stability. Midfield markets and odds on United signing multiple midfielders could move quickly as negotiations develop.

Where Could Ugarte End Up?

Below are plausible destinations based on tactical fit and reported interest:

Atletico Madrid

A natural tactical match: Ugarte’s aggression, pressing and defensive discipline suit a Diego Simeone-style midfield requiring steel and structure.

Juventus

Juventus could offer guaranteed starting minutes and a prominent role in a midfield being rebuilt, with Ugarte’s ball-winning characteristics highly valued in Serie A.

Napoli

Napoli’s high-intensity setup would benefit from a combative midfielder who can protect creative players and press relentlessly.

Managerial Context and Next Steps

The interim manager has revived United’s form with a strong run of results, but selection choices have left Ugarte on the periphery. The summer window will determine whether Ugarte remains part of the core midfield or is moved on to free up resources and reshape the squad.

What Fans and Bettors Should Watch

Monitor official transfer announcements, summer negotiations involving Serie A clubs, and early odds in transfer markets.

Paul Scholes names his 'perfect' next Man United manager and why there are question marks about Michael Carrick's future despite superb start

Bookmakers are likely to open markets for Ugarte’s next club and for United’s midfield signings — sensible bets include Ugarte to leave and United to bring in at least two defensive midfielders before the new season.

Givemesport