Fakayejo Paul
Manchester United are preparing for a “total reconstruction” of their midfield this summer, with the club now officially looking to bring in two new midfielders following confirmation of high-profile departures.
While Casemiro‘s exit has been known since January, the situation surrounding Manuel Ugarte has rapidly escalated. As of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Fabrizio Romano reports that “movements have started” regarding the Uruguayan’s future, with a summer exit looking increasingly likely just two years after his £51 million arrival.
The Ugarte Situation: From PSG to the Exit Door
Despite joining with high expectations, Ugarte has struggled to secure a permanent starting role. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, the 24-year-old has yet to start a single match, falling behind the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and the departing Casemiro in the pecking order.
- The Timeline: Official talks regarding the fee and deal structure are expected to follow in May and June.
- The Suitors: Juventus are currently considered the frontrunners, with sporting director Marco Ottolini recently scouting the midfielder during the international break. Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Galatasaray are also monitoring the situation closely.
- The Valuation: United are reportedly looking to recoup approximately £35 million to reinvest in their incoming targets.
Targeting “Plan A” and “Plan B”
With two gaps to fill in the engine room, INEOS has identified a clear shortlist of “A-grade” targets to partner Mainoo next season:
- Sandro Tonali (Plan A): The Newcastle midfielder has emerged as the priority. While expensive, United believe they are “front of the queue” should Newcastle decide to sell to balance their own books.
- Amadou Onana: United are in a “favorable position” to sign the Aston Villa star. Reports suggest Villa may be forced to consider a high-value sale due to financial constraints, and Onana is high on Carrick’s wishlist.
- Elliot Anderson: The Nottingham Forest standout remains a major target, though United face stiff competition from Manchester City, who are currently considered “ahead in the race” for the £100m-rated midfielder.
A New Era Under Carrick
The decision to overhaul the midfield is seen as the first major tactical move by the INEOS leadership to align the squad with Michael Carrick’s vision.
By moving on from the high wages of Casemiro and the tactical mismatch of Ugarte, the club aims to build a more mobile, technically proficient core before the 2026–27 campaign begins.