INEOS have already secured a “beast” who might conclude Ugarte’s Man Utd tenure
Manchester United faces a critical few weeks as they aim to seriously contend for a spot in the Premier League’s top four this season. Ruben Amorim’s squad seems to have found their footing lately, evidenced by their recent four-game unbeaten streak that has put them within reach of the top four. However, the impending January transfer window may arrive at an opportune moment, providing INEOS with a prime opportunity to enhance their squad and boost their prospects for European football.
After investing £200m in new players during the summer transfer season, it remains uncertain how much the management will allocate for the forthcoming winter window. Several existing players may need to be traded, which could lead to one individual departing after a mere 18 months at Old Trafford.
Reasons Ugarte could depart INEOS in January
Last summer, United reportedly invested £50m to acquire midfielder Manuel Ugarte from PSG—a move that raised hopes among the fanbase. Yet, 18 months later, it has become evident that the transfer has not panned out, with the Uruguayan international quickly slipping down Amorim’s hierarchy this season.
He has started only three league matches out of a possible 17, with teammates Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes currently prioritized ahead of him. Ugarte was given a starting spot against Aston Villa after the Brazilian received his fifth yellow card of the season, but it turned out to be a forgettable match for the 24-year-old.
He played for 73 minutes in the West Midlands before being substituted, with his underlying stats from the loss highlighting his lack of effectiveness and quality. The midfielder lost 50% of the duels he engaged in and managed to win just 40% of the tackles attempted—demonstrating his deficiencies without the ball, which is supposedly his main strength.
United has now been defeated in all seven matches he has started this season, which might further diminish his standing in the selection order, with the high-profile signing failing to meet expectations.
The player who might end Ugarte’s Man Utd career
In their endeavor to strengthen the midfield, United may look to the transfer market to enhance Amorim’s options for both immediate needs and long-term goals.
Elliot Anderson is one player that has caught their interest over the past few months, with the Nottingham Forest talent possibly commanding a fee close to £100m. He is not alone in their considerations, as Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is also being evaluated by the club’s higher-ups ahead of the winter transfer period.
However, both acquisitions could require substantial financial outlays in January, which may hinder the management from acquiring one of their coveted targets in the near future. Consequently, promising youth players could be promoted to join the senior team, which might provide midfielder Sekou Kone an opportunity to make his Premier League debut.
The 19-year-old, who arrived from Guidars FC in the summer of 2024, has been part of the youth setup since his transfer, totaling 20 appearances across various age levels. During this period, he has already notched up two goals and two assists despite holding a deep-lying position, reflecting significant defensive duties.
The Malian talent has yet to make his first-team debut for the Red Devils, but he could potentially end Ugarte’s time at the club if he seizes his opportunity in Manchester.
Kone, referred to as a “beast” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has posted impressive statistics at youth levels, many of which could make him an extraordinary long-term prospect for the Red Devils.
| Sekou Kone – U17 World Cup | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics | ||
| Per 90 | ||
| Key passes | 1.6 | 10 |
| Dribbles completed | 2.5 | 16 |
| Long balls completed | 5.5 | 35 |
| Tackles and interceptions | 6.4 | 41 |
| Aerial duels won | 2.5 | 16 |
Stats via Sofascore
He has also previously represented his nation at the U17 World Cup, averaging 1.6 key passes and 2.5 completed dribbles per 90 minutes. The youngster’s skills are further evidenced by his record of 6.4 tackles and interceptions and 2.5 aerials won per 90 minutes—arguably marking him as the ideal box-to-box candidate at Old Trafford.
At just 19 years old, he has ample time to develop in the upcoming years, potentially becoming a cornerstone for United under Amorim for an extended period. As for Ugarte, he may find opportunities increasingly difficult to secure soon, prompting the management to consider selling him to recoup part of their investment.
Published: 2025-12-22 20:45:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
