Manchester United are set for a busy summer transfer window as Michael Carrick prepares for his first full season as manager. The club's hierarchy will face plenty of decisions, with strengthening the midfield a top priority after bidding farewell to Casemiro. Ederson has already agreed a move to Old Trafford, but further reinforcements are expected.
INEOS approve midfielder plan
Manchester United are reportedly willing to take a loss on Manuel Ugarte as they attempt to offload him. The Uruguayan midfielder has struggled to make an impact following his £42.3 million move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024. According to The Sun, the club hierarchy are prepared to accept a loss this summer, and his sale would prompt Carrick's side to target a third midfielder, following the signing of Ederson and the pursuit of West Ham's Mateus Fernandes.
INEOS, which oversees football operations at United, would need to sell Ugarte for £25.38 million for United to avoid a loss under profitability and sustainability rules after the midfielder signed a contract until 2029. However, the 25-year-old's wages could prove an issue for potential suitors and keep him at Old Trafford this summer. Ugarte featured on 24 occasions for United last term but made only 10 starts. He is currently representing Uruguay at the World Cup.
Rivals' opening bid rejected
Leeds United have seen a £20 million offer rejected for Southampton star Shea Charles. The 22-year-old has previously been linked with the Red Devils, but rivals Leeds have made an early bid for the midfielder. The Athletic reports that the offer did not meet Southampton's valuation, but talks between the two clubs remain ongoing. Meanwhile, Carrick's side are yet to make an offer for the Northern Ireland international.
It was reported last month that United would target three midfield signings if Ugarte were to be sold. United's director of football Jason Wilcox helped Southampton sign Charles from Manchester City in 2023 during his time with the Saints.
United's return to Champions League
United will hope to use the transfer market to build on their third-place finish last term. The club's return to the Champions League puts even more emphasis on getting recruitment right. Strengthening the midfield is a top priority, with various players linked including West Ham's Mateus Fernandes and Southampton's Shea Charles, while Manuel Ugarte reportedly faces an uncertain future.
