Manchester United set Manuel Ugarte price as AC Milan explore reunion with Ruben Amorim

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to sell Manuel Ugarte this summer as AC Milan explore a deal that could reunite the midfielder with Ruben Amorim.

The Uruguay international arrived at Old Trafford in a £42m move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, but his time in England has failed to unfold as expected.

Now, with Michael Carrick reshaping his squad and Milan searching for midfield reinforcements, a transfer is increasingly being viewed as a realistic possibility.

Expectations were high when United secured Ugarte's signature.

The midfielder arrived with a reputation as one of Europe's most aggressive ball-winners and was expected to become a key figure in the club's midfield rebuild.

Instead, opportunities have become increasingly limited.

The 25-year-old has made just 30 Premier League appearances across two seasons and gradually slipped down the pecking order, particularly after Kobbie Mainoo re-established himself as a regular starter.

Reports suggest Carrick has now informed Ugarte that he is not considered part of the club's long-term plans.

That message has reportedly prompted the player to actively explore options elsewhere.

According to reports, Ugarte's agent Jorge Mendes has already opened preliminary discussions with AC Milan regarding a possible transfer.

The attraction is obvious.

Milan's new manager is Ruben Amorim, the coach who played a major role in Ugarte's development at Sporting CP and later worked with him again during his spell at Manchester United.

Few managers understand the midfielder's strengths better.

Having followed Amorim's tactical approach throughout his coaching career, energetic ball-winning midfielders have always played a crucial role in his system. Ugarte's profile remains an excellent fit for that style of football.

For the player, a reunion could offer the opportunity to rediscover the form that originally made him one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders.

One factor working in Manchester United's favour is the ongoing World Cup.

Ugarte remains a regular starter for Uruguay and strong performances during the tournament could strengthen his market value.

The midfielder started his country's opening match and is expected to remain an important figure throughout the group stage.

If he performs well on the international stage, additional clubs could enter the race and improve United's negotiating position.

Interestingly, reports suggest Amorim remained supportive of Ugarte even during difficult periods at Old Trafford.

Before his own departure from Manchester United, the Portuguese coach publicly acknowledged the midfielder's struggles but insisted he retained faith in his ability.

That belief may now provide the foundation for a fresh start in Italy.

For Ugarte, Milan could represent the ideal opportunity to rebuild momentum after two challenging seasons in England.

Negotiations between Manchester United and AC Milan are expected to continue over the coming weeks as both clubs attempt to find common ground on valuation.

The World Cup may also play a significant role in shaping the transfer. If Ugarte impresses for Uruguay, United's asking price could become easier to justify. For now, all signs point towards a summer departure as the midfielder searches for a fresh start away from Old Trafford.

Should Manchester United sell Manuel Ugarte for £30m, or would that represent poor value for a player still entering his prime years?