Manchester United's hopes of signing a third midfielder this summer have been dealt a significant blow after Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious injury during Uruguay's World Cup match against Spain on Saturday. The 25-year-old was stretchered off the pitch in the first half of Uruguay's 1-0 defeat, which also ended their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
The injury occurred when Ugarte and his own teammate, Mathias Olivera, both challenged for the ball. Olivera reached it first, and in the aftermath, fell onto Ugarte's extended leg, causing the damage. The severity of the injury is yet to be fully assessed, but early indications suggest it could keep him sidelined for an extended period.
Impact on United's Transfer Plans
United had been planning to sign three midfielders this summer, with Ugarte expected to be sold to raise funds. However, his injury now makes a sale unlikely, at least until the January transfer window. The club's plans had already been complicated by the inflated midfielder market, highlighted by Manchester City's £116 million move for England and Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.
Despite the setback, United remain active in the market. They are close to signing Ederson from Atalanta for an initial £35 million, plus £3.8 million in add-ons. The Brazilian midfielder is expected to join as the first of their midfield reinforcements.
Mateus Fernandes Talks Accelerate
One player United are keen to sign is West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. Talks have accelerated in the final week of June, with Tottenham Hotspur also in the race and reportedly willing to meet West Ham's £80 million valuation. However, Spanish publication Marca reports that United have made fresh contact and are willing to improve their contract offer for the Portuguese midfielder. United also plan to hold direct talks with West Ham.
The Hammers' financial situation is believed to be a factor in the accelerated negotiations. United face stiff competition from Spurs, who are prepared to offer more money. The outcome of the Fernandes pursuit could hinge on United's ability to match or exceed Tottenham's offer.
Ugarte's Salary Covered by FIFA Programme
FIFA's Club Protection Programme will cover Ugarte's salary if he is out for at least 28 consecutive days. The scheme pays the salary of an injured player up to a maximum of €7.5 million (£6.6 million) until they are declared fit to return to their club. However, this does not solve the issue of selling Ugarte while he is injured, meaning he will likely remain at United until at least January.
United's midfield overhaul remains a priority, but the Ugarte injury and the high cost of targets like Fernandes present significant challenges. The club must now decide whether to increase their bid for Fernandes or look elsewhere for reinforcements.
