Manchester United prepared to swap struggling Manuel Ugarte for “versatile” AFCON star valued at £21 million

Georginio Rutter in action with Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte. (REUTERS/Scott Heppell)

Manchester United’s campaign has been one of steady progress rather than real momentum.

While a fifth-place league position represents an improvement on last season, early exits from both the FA Cup and EFL Cup, coupled with inconsistent performances, ultimately cost Ruben Amorim his job earlier this month.

Amid the turbulence, several players have struggled to make their mark, none more so than Manuel Ugarte.

The Uruguayan midfielder has endured a difficult season at Old Trafford, with his displays drawing growing criticism and raising questions about his long-term future at the club.

Ugarte’s stock fell sharply under Amorim, to the point where a January exit was seriously considered. While the former head coach was open to letting the £42 million signing leave.

According to GIVEMESPORT, United may now look to use Ugarte as leverage in the transfer market, with the midfielder potentially included in a swap deal for Sunderland’s highly-rated Noah Sadiki.

Sadiki, 20, joined the Black Cats from Union Saint-Gilloise for £15 million last summer and has impressed following Sunderland’s strong start to life back in the Premier League. His reputation has grown further after playing a key role in DR Congo’s run to the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, pushing his valuation to around £21m.

The youngster has been widely praised for his energy and adaptability. BBC Radio Newcastle contributor Scott Coyne described Sadiki as “versatile” and a “really exciting player,” highlighting his intensity and tactical intelligence in midfield.

For United, Sadiki represents the profile they are increasingly targeting in the middle of the pitch: youthful, mobile and capable of operating in multiple roles. If a swap deal can be agreed, it could offer both clubs a timely solution as the January window progresses.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.