According to a report from Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Manuel Ugarte is highly rated by Luciano Spalletti, and the Juventus head coach believes the 24-year-old defensive midfielder could be a good fit for his system.
He was highly rated during his time at Sporting CP and PSG. There is no doubt that he is a quality player who has just not adapted to English football properly. He is by no means a bad player, and the right move could bring out the best in him once again.
Juventus are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to get his career back on track by joining them will be exciting for the Uruguay international. The defensive midfielder needs to join a club where the manager will trust in his abilities and give him regular opportunities. He has a contract with Manchester United until 2029, but he has struggled for opportunities with them. Sitting on the bench at Manchester United will not benefit him, and all parties should look to finalise a move in the summer.
Ugarte has had just 791 minutes of Premier League football this season, and he needs more opportunities at this stage of his career.
Meanwhile, Manchester United paid €50 million to secure his signature, and they will look to recoup most of that. It remains to be seen whether they can convince Juventus to pay a premium for him.
During his time at Sporting CP and PSG, he showed he can be a physically imposing, aggressive ball-winner for his team. Juventus need someone with his skill set, and he could form a solid partnership with the likes of Khephren Thuram.
Manchester United need a player with his ability as well. However, the 24-year-old has failed to make his mark in English football, and it would be ideal for the English outfit to sanction his departure and replace him with someone who can help them improve.
