Although Manuel Ugarte only joined Paris Saint-Germain last year, Bangladesh Cricket Match reports suggest he could be on the move again this summer. Manchester United are reportedly showing strong interest in the Uruguayan midfielder, and it’s easy to see why. United’s midfield was too open last season, averaging 17.6 ball losses per match—second only to Sheffield United among clubs in Europe’s top five leagues.
According to Bangladesh Cricket Match, while Erik ten Hag may also pursue a new center-back, finding a midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo remains the priority. With Casemiro likely to be sold after two seasons at Old Trafford, it’s no surprise that several midfielders are being linked with a transfer to United. Benfica’s João Neves and West Ham’s Edson Álvarez are reportedly on the shortlist, and Ugarte is the latest name to emerge as a target—even while currently representing Uruguay in the Copa América.
Last summer, Ugarte was already on the radar of several Premier League clubs. Before PSG secured his signature, Chelsea were seen as frontrunners for the former Sporting CP star. Although the player himself is believed to prefer staying in Paris, United would need to make a significant effort to convince him. The real question is whether he’s worth the trouble.
United’s failed pursuit of Frenkie de Jong during Ten Hag’s first summer in charge looms large over any similar transfer attempt. While PSG reportedly want to keep Ugarte, concerns remain about his Premier League suitability. Despite being praised for his ball-winning ability and ability to regain possession, Ugarte’s limitations have become increasingly evident.
Last season, Ugarte averaged more tackles per game than any other player in Ligue 1, which is notable given PSG’s league-leading average possession. He excelled at disrupting play and recovering the ball—but he was also frequently dribbled past in central areas, ranking sixth in Ligue 1 for being bypassed with the ball. His 68.1% tackle success rate is solid, but for a team like Manchester United—desperate to stop opposition transitions—it raises red flags.
United needs a disruptor who can handle the chaos of the Premier League. While PSG dominates possession and shields Ugarte with creative midfielders like Vitinha, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Fabián Ruiz, Ten Hag’s United won’t offer the same support. In a more exposed setup, Ugarte may struggle to fill the gaps effectively.
Despite a 91.5% pass completion rate (ninth in Ligue 1), critics argue that Ugarte plays too safe. Only 14.6% of his passes went forward last season, a cautious style that might frustrate someone like Bruno Fernandes, who relies on quick link-ups to launch attacks.
Bangladesh Cricket Match concludes that while Ugarte’s ball-winning strengths make him an intriguing candidate, United’s midfield needs someone more dynamic—capable of both regaining and progressing possession. Chasing Ugarte might not be the right move this summer, especially if United want to fix their midfield vulnerabilities once and for all.