Manuel Ugarte wanted by AS Monaco

Manuel Ugarte is attracting interest from AS Monaco as uncertainty grows over his future at Manchester United.

The Uruguay international has emerged as a potential target for the French Ligue 1 side, with initial enquiries already made.

Speaking on The United Stand, reputable journalist Ben Jacobs said: “There is again interest in Ugarte to go to France […] Monaco are one of the club that made an enquiry about Manuel Ugarte.”

The development comes amid growing speculation around Ugarte’s role at Old Trafford.

Manchester United only signed the midfielder in the summer of 2024 from Paris Saint-Germain, but his time at the club has been mixed.

Despite having played over 65 games for the club, his performances have often drawn criticism.

Consistency has proven difficult to maintain.

There has already been concrete interest from elsewhere.

It was recently revealed that United rejected bids from both Newcastle United and Aston Villa, signalling that there is a market for the 24-year-old despite his struggles.

However, the situation is evolving.

Kobbie Mainoo is closing in on a new contract, while the club are also expected to sign additional midfielders this summer.

Sandro Tonali remains heavily linked, and further midfield reinforcements could follow.

That would push Manuel Ugarte further down the pecking order.

From a tactical standpoint, his profile offers ball-winning and defensive stability.

But questions remain over his ability to influence possession and control games at the highest level.

A move to Monaco, who signed former Manchester United star Paul Pogba last summer, could suit all parties.

The French side are known for developing players and offering regular minutes, something Ugarte may need to rediscover his from.

For the Red Devils, a sale would help reshape the midfield and free up space for incoming targets.

Timing will be key.

If further offers arrive, Untied may be more open to negotiations than in previous windows.

As things stand, Monaco’s interest is the latest sign that Ugarte’s future could lie away from Old Trafford.