Credit: Imago

Harri Burton

Fri 15 May 2026 13:00, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Newcastle United have been provided a fresh boost in their quest to sign Manchester United outcast Manuel Ugarte this summer.

The 25-year-old is already expected to leave Old Trafford at the end of the 2025-26 campaign, having fallen down the pecking order since the new manager was appointed on an interim basis.

Speculation has been swirling around Michael Carrick’s future, with the manager impressing immensely, winning 10 of his 15 games in charge, form which has seen the Red Devils move to third in the league.

Newcastle’s transfer chiefs can take full advantage of the current situation, especially with Man United’s hierarchy already making a decision on Carrick’s future. It’s now down to the manager.

Michael Carrick update spells bad news for Manuel Ugarte

New reports say that Carrick has been offered a two-year contract at Old Trafford, with an option of another year, making huge changes after replacing Ruben Amorim in January.

Since his arrival, however, Ugarte’s career has suffered spectacularly, being given just one start in the middle of the pitch. In his place, Kobbie Mainoo has been allowed to thrive once again.

He has even failed to make it off the bench in each of United’s last three Premier League games, so it would appear that the Uruguayan international has no future at the Theatre of Dreams.

All signs point towards the exit doors, and Eddie Howe could soon add him to the squad at St James’ Park, as Football Insider understands that Newcastle are eyeing up Ugarte this summer.

Man United midfielder has already spoken out about St James’ Park

While Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are the usual trio in midfield, Howe has rarely had all three available to him during the 2025-26 campaign.

With the chance of also losing at least one of them this summer, it makes sense for the Magpies to go in for Ugarte, and the former PSG man knows exactly what to expect from the St James’ Park atmosphere.

Speaking back in 2023 after PSG lost 4-1 to Newcastle, he said: “Newcastle played very well and did very good pressing. They were very well organised. They had great determination.

“The atmosphere had an influence on the match. Newcastle are strong at home. It was not our best match. We could have done more. The truth is that the atmosphere helped them.”

He could have St James’ Park on his side next season, though, and that would make a huge difference.