Manchester United Set Manuel Ugarte Valuation as AC Milan Explore Move for Midfielder

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to part ways with Manuel Ugarte this summer as AC Milan consider a move to revive the midfielder’s fortunes following a difficult spell at Old Trafford.

The Italian giants are understood to be exploring a deal that could reunite the Uruguay international with Ruben Amorim, who is now leading Milan and previously worked closely with Ugarte during their time together.

Ugarte Faces Uncertain Future at Old Trafford

United signed Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 in a deal worth approximately £42 million, expecting the midfielder to become a long-term solution in central areas.

However, his time in Manchester has failed to develop as anticipated.

Across two seasons, Ugarte has struggled to establish himself consistently in the Premier League and made only 30 league appearances, gradually falling down the midfield hierarchy.

His situation became even more difficult during the second half of last season as Kobbie Mainoo re-established himself in the side and increased competition for places.

Reports suggest Manchester United’s management no longer view Ugarte as part of their long-term project.

United Hold Firm on Asking Price

Despite being open to a sale, United are reportedly unwilling to sanction a cut-price exit.

The club are understood to value the midfielder at around £30 million as they seek to recover a significant portion of their original investment.

Meanwhile, AC Milan are reluctant to meet that valuation at this stage.

Discussions between the clubs remain at an early phase, although further negotiations are expected as both parties attempt to reach a compromise.

Midfield Reshuffle Continues at Manchester United

United have already strengthened their midfield options with the addition of Brazilian midfielder Ederson from Atalanta and are reportedly continuing to monitor further reinforcements.

That activity has only increased uncertainty surrounding Ugarte’s future.

The midfielder is believed to have instructed his representative, Jorge Mendes, to explore opportunities elsewhere in search of regular first-team football.

Amorim Still Believes in Ugarte’s Ability

A reunion with Amorim could offer Ugarte an opportunity to rediscover the form that originally made him one of Europe’s most highly regarded midfielders.

The pair previously worked together at Sporting before reconnecting again during Amorim’s time at Manchester United.

Despite expectations that the manager’s arrival would unlock Ugarte’s potential, the midfielder never fully delivered on the promise shown earlier in his career.

Speaking earlier in the year before leaving Old Trafford, Amorim publicly backed the player and stressed the importance of adaptation.

“You can see that many very good players arrive here and sometimes they struggle. He is struggling at the moment, but it is our job to help him and help him rediscover the level I saw when he was a Sporting player.

It is a different environment. He needs to adapt and continue improving, especially in training.”

World Cup Could Influence Transfer Outcome

Ugarte’s performances at the FIFA World Cup may still play a role in shaping his future.

The midfielder started Uruguay’s opening group-stage match and will have further opportunities to impress scouts and interested clubs before the summer transfer window reaches its decisive stages.

For now, Manchester United appear ready to move on, while Milan continue to assess whether Ugarte can become one of their key rebuilding pieces ahead of the new season.