Ajax have made an enquiry to Manchester United about signing Manuel Ugarte, with the Dutch club interested in a loan move, according to a report. The Athletic said a deal is currently viewed as unlikely, with United so far rejecting Ajax’s interest. Ugarte joined from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024 but has struggled to make the desired impact at Old Trafford.
Ajax make loan enquiry for Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte, report says
Ajax have reportedly opened talks with Manchester United to explore a move for midfielder Manuel Ugarte. The Athletic said the Eredivisie side are keen on a loan deal, but a transfer is currently considered unlikely, with United rejecting the approach so far.
United signed Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024, but the Uruguay international has struggled to make the desired impact at Old Trafford. The report suggested his future could now be in some doubt, even if United still view him as a useful squad or backup option.
The report added that United may be reluctant to let Ugarte leave midway through the season. With limited squad depth, Ugarte could remain important cover in midfield, particularly with Casemiro described as ageing in the same report.
A loan could still appeal to Ajax and the player if it offers Ugarte more regular football, with the report noting the possibility he could revive his career by playing more often. It also suggested United may prefer to keep control of his long-term value, potentially looking to make money from a permanent sale.
If a move does not happen in January, the report said United could look to offload the 24-year-old in the summer, when there would be more time to replace him and rebuild the midfield. It also argued that a loan spell could help raise Ugarte’s valuation compared with spending the next five months largely on the bench.
