Newcastle United have reportedly set their sights on signing Manchester United star Manuel Ugarte, in what is being touted as an interesting development amid uncertainty over Sandro Tonali’s future.
Manuel Ugarte joined Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £50.7 million (including add-ons) in the summer of 2024, but he has not lived up to his price tag at Old Trafford.
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The Uruguayan international has started on the bench in his six games under Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick. – British football experts are convinced he is not part of the club’s long-term plans.
According to GSM, Man Utd are “open to selling” Ugarte in the summer, and the player is “pushing to leave” to get more playing time elsewhere.
The report claims that the Red Devils value Ugarte at €40 million, meaning they are willing to lose £15 million on the midfielder to get him off the books.
Newcastle, who were linked with Ugarte in January, are reportedly “monitoring” the situation with a view to a potential summer move, but they are not alone.
Aston Villa are also said to be interested in Ugarte, but Italian Juventus are “leading the way”, while Galatasaray, who failed in an attempt at the Man Utd player in January, are also in the running.
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As mentioned, Newcastle’s reported interest in Ugarte comes amid uncertainty surrounding key midfielder Tonali.
We have regularly reported on how the 25-year-old Italian international is on Man Utd’s wish list, as they are planning a midfield renewal in the summer.
Manchester City, Arsenal and Real Madrid have also been in contact with Tonali’s team, and the player is open to a move away from St. James’ Park.
And in an update on Friday, TEAMtalk insider Graeme Bailey revealed that Newcastle could reluctantly sell Tonali to fund a squad renewal, even if they are stuck on a price tag of at least £80 million.
We understand that Eddie Howe has informed the club’s management that he wants to make major changes to his team, as he does not believe he has the quality needed to fight for trophies on a regular basis.
But game sales are needed first, and Tonali could be sacrificed – although he will obviously have to be replaced if he leaves.
Ugarte would be a surprising option given his problems in the Premier League, but this isn’t the first time Newcastle have been linked with him, so he’s a player to watch as we approach the summer transfer window.
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