Manchester United’s summer transfer plans are thrown into fresh uncertainty after Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury while playing for Uruguay against Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Ugarte twisted his knee before halftime during Uruguay’s 1-0 loss and was carried off on a stretcher.
United are still waiting for full confirmation of the severity, but The Times reported that the injury could be an anterior cruciate ligament issue and could keep him out for nine to 12 months.
This is a major problem for Michael Carrick’s team plans, sources close to the agency industry have said. catch off side.
Man United were open to making Ugarte available on a permanent deal or on loan this summer, but that option looks set to become very difficult.
Man United’s transfer plans have changed
United’s midfield was already ready for a big job before Ugarte’s injury.
Casemiro’s departure left a vacuum, while the expected departure of Ugarte was supposed to free up wages, create space in the squad and contribute to the rules of profitability and sustainability.
That plan has now changed. Ugarte is expected to complete his rehabilitation at Carrington and United should be able to claim salary support through FIFA’s Club Protection Programme, as the injury occurred while on international duty.
The scheme, which covers eligible injuries after the first 28 days of absence, only softens the financial blow rather than solving football’s problems.
United have already moved to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with The Times reporting the deal is worth around £38.8m.
The club also remains interested in West Ham’s Matheus Fernandes, but he faces competition from Tottenham.
Signing midfielders has become even more important
Ugarte’s injury has made it imperative for United to sign at least two midfielders.
Ederson will add energy and defensive work rate, but don’t expect him to solve everything on his own.
United should continue to push for Fernandes if the price is realistic, but they also need to prepare a replacement.
Alex Scott, Carlos Baleva, and Felix Nmeka all make sense as different profiles depending on budget and availability.
The biggest mistake United can make now is assuming that Ugarte’s eventual return will solve the problem.
The injury eliminated both team options and a possible sale. Carrick needs immediate depth and United must act quickly before the market becomes even more difficult.
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