The first name to be let go from MU has been revealed

The 2025 winter transfer period at Old Trafford promises to be very lively, with Man United embarking on a strong reconstruction effort under their new manager Ruben Amorim.

After initial assessments of the squad, the coaching staff reached a consensus that the midfield requires a significant overhaul, and Manuel Ugarte is likely to be the player sacrificed for this restructuring plan.

Joining Manchester United with high expectations, the Uruguayan midfielder has failed to secure a spot in the Red Devils' lineup. So far this season, Ugarte has only played 359 minutes across 11 appearances, a very modest amount for a signing once seen as the solution to the midfield defensive problem. The lack of consistent playing time has prevented Ugarte from adapting to the English football environment, gradually pushing him out of the club’s long-term plans.

According to close sources, Manchester United is ready to facilitate Ugarte’s departure as early as January to free up wage space and make room for new signings better suited to Ruben Amorim’s philosophy. OGC Nice, a club closely linked to the INEOS group, is emerging as a potential destination, prepared to take the Uruguayan midfielder on loan. This option is seen as mutually beneficial, allowing Ugarte to regain a central role while giving MU more financial flexibility to bring in new talent.

Ruben Amorim is reportedly seeking a central midfielder who can cover the field well, support defensively, and also possess a modern playing mindset, fitting the two-defensive-midfielder system he prefers. Though experienced, Casemiro cannot shoulder all responsibilities alone, forcing MU to find a truly compatible partner.

Therefore, Manchester United’s target list is expanding. Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace are two young, promising talents who meet the requirements for ball recovery and distribution. Additionally, Conor Gallagher, with experience at Atletico Madrid, and Eliott Anderson, known for his excellent fitness, are also on the radar.

If Manuel Ugarte leaves Old Trafford, it will mark a milestone showing that the Red Devils are ready to cut off pieces that no longer fit, opening a new chapter for the ambitious rebuilding project under Ruben Amorim’s reign.