Manchester United is awaiting further news on midfielder Manuel Ugarte's knee injury, which he sustained while playing for Uruguay in their World Cup match against Spain.
Ugarte was seen leaving the field on a stretcher during the match, appearing to twist his left knee. The club issued a statement acknowledging the midfielder's distress and the uncertainty surrounding the severity of the injury. "Unfortunately, our midfielder had to leave the pitch in some distress on a stretcher shortly before half-time, to be replaced by Nicolas de la Cruz, and the extent of his injury is yet to be determined. We wish Manu a speedy recovery and hope to see him back in action soon," the club stated.
The 25-year-old midfielder joined Manchester United two years ago in a deal potentially worth up to £50.5 million. However, he has struggled to secure a regular starting position, making only 10 starts across all competitions last season. This has led to speculation that the club might consider offers for him during the summer transfer window.
Manchester United has already begun a midfield rebuild following the departure of Casemiro as a free agent. The club has reportedly agreed to a £39 million deal with Atalanta for Ederson, pending his return from the World Cup with Brazil. Additionally, United is in discussions with West Ham over a potential transfer for midfielder Mateus Fernandes, though the London club is said to value him between £80-85 million. West Ham is also negotiating with Tottenham for the 21-year-old Portuguese international.
If Fernandes proves unattainable, Bournemouth's Alex Scott is reportedly a primary alternative, with other names like Aurelien Tchouameni, Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton also mentioned as possibilities.
The extent of Ugarte's injury is crucial, as a lengthy rehabilitation period could complicate any potential sale this summer. While the club might still be able to fund the transfers for Ederson and Fernandes, the possibility of recouping funds from Ugarte's sale was seen as a way to potentially add a third midfielder to the squad. If Ugarte remains at the club due to his injury, those plans for a third midfield signing may need to be reconsidered, especially if the club also aims to recruit a left-sided player and a backup goalkeeper.
Manchester United is expected to receive some compensation from FIFA's club protection program, which covers a portion of a player's salary for injuries sustained on international duty.