Manchester United (MU) is preparing for a major overhaul in their midfield ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window. After confirming the departure of Casemiro, another central midfielder is reportedly on the exit list, signaling a significant shift in the Red Devils’ core structure at Old Trafford.
While the previous transfer window largely focused on bolstering the attack, with the signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko designed to enhance goal-scoring capabilities, concerns over the midfield balance have increasingly taken center stage. Fans and pundits alike argue that MU’s reliance on the Casemiro-Bruno Fernandes partnership made the team less adaptable, especially against high-intensity opponents.
The club has officially confirmed that Casemiro will leave Manchester United at the end of the season as his contract concludes after four years with the club. However, speculation is growing that a second midfielder could soon join him in exiting the Red Devils.
Manuel Ugarte Not in the Future Plans
According to reports from The Athletic, Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte is also unlikely to remain at Manchester United beyond the summer 2026 transfer window.
Signed from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of £42 million during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, Ugarte was expected to provide energy, defensive stability, and ball progression in the middle of the park. Yet, his performances at Old Trafford have failed to meet expectations.
Since Michael Carrick took over as interim manager, Ugarte has seen minimal playing time. He has logged just nine minutes across the first two matches under Carrick, and was an unused substitute for the full 90 minutes in United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. These limited opportunities highlight his diminishing role in the team.
Carrick’s Faith in Kobbie Mainoo Shrinks Ugarte’s Chances
Despite early optimism when Ruben Amorim joined—given their previous working relationship—Ugarte struggled to replicate the high-level performances he displayed at Sporting CP. Over time, his role became increasingly peripheral, often relegated to the bench.
Carrick’s decision to give more responsibility to young talent Kobbie Mainoo has further reduced Ugarte’s prospects for first-team action. As a result, a move away from Old Trafford this summer appears increasingly inevitable.
European Interest in Ugarte
Several European clubs have reportedly expressed interest in signing Manuel Ugarte. Among the top suitors are Galatasaray and Ajax, both of whom are said to be monitoring his situation closely. These clubs see Ugarte as a potential key addition to their midfield, bringing defensive solidity, ball control, and international experience.
For Manchester United, allowing Ugarte to leave could provide flexibility for restructuring the midfield and integrating other options better suited to the tactical vision Carrick or the next permanent manager may have.
Strategic Midfield Rebuild Underway
MU’s potential midfield revamp is part of a broader strategy to balance the squad more effectively. While the attack received significant reinforcement last summer, the central areas require a blend of defensive coverage, passing ability, and creative link-up play.
The departure of Casemiro and possibly Ugarte signals a shift toward players who can handle high-press scenarios, quick transitions, and greater tactical adaptability. With the summer window approaching, Manchester United faces critical decisions about who will anchor the midfield and who will join the exodus.
Future Prospects and Squad Dynamics
For Manuel Ugarte, the summer transfer window could be a fresh start. Moving to a club where he can secure regular minutes may revive his career trajectory. Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to assess which midfielders align with the club’s long-term tactical philosophy.
The situation underscores the high-stakes nature of professional football at elite clubs. Even talented, high-profile signings like Ugarte can struggle to find consistency if managerial shifts and competition from emerging talents alter their roles.
In summary, Manchester United’s summer 2026 transfer plans are poised to reshape the midfield. Casemiro’s exit is confirmed, and Manuel Ugarte’s future appears uncertain as interim manager Michael Carrick looks to optimize the squad. Clubs such as Galatasaray and Ajax are monitoring the Uruguayan midfielder, signaling potential opportunities for him to thrive elsewhere in Europe.
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