Man Utd midfielder ‘set for loan transfer’ amid Baleba interest | Football | Sport
Manchester United’s January transfer window has been off to a slow start, and if Ruben Amorim’s words hold true, it might remain so. The Portuguese manager confirmed on Friday that there were no ongoing talks regarding squad alterations.
Amorim also disclosed that he didn’t expect any of his players to request a transfer this month. This could be good news for those hoping Kobbie Mainoo will stay at United beyond January, particularly given his summer loan request was rejected. The Reds’ academy product is still out due to injury ahead of United’s Sunday match against Leeds (12:30pm kick-off). Amorim’s squad will aim to recover from a disappointing 1-1 draw with Wolves when they visit Elland Road. With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest United headlines….
Ugarte ‘set for loan transfer’
Galatasaray are reportedly preparing a loan deal for United’s Manuel Ugarte – with Fernando Muslera and ex-Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira said to be persuading him.
According to reports in Sozcu, Gala have shifted their attention to Ugarte and have made ‘significant progress’ in discussions with United about a January move. It’s reported that the Turkish heavyweights have suggested a loan deal with an option to buy, while United are pushing for a compulsory purchase clause.
While talks have reportedly been advancing smoothly, Galatasaray are understood to be insistent on incorporating an optional clause, with reports suggesting that United are ‘mulling over’ this proposal.
It is understood that Ugarte is prepared to make the move to Turkey, which would see him link up with compatriots Muslera and Torreira. The report additionally claims that the pair have successfully convinced the United player to join Gala, having set out their objectives and strategies for the current campaign and beyond.
Isaac Seelochan of Express Sport says: “Ugarte has been a disastrous signing – there is no other way to look at it. He lacks any of the physical and technical attributes to play for a top Premier League team which United are hoping to be under Ruben Amorim. A loan with an option to buy may be best for both parties. Whatever happens, it’s hard to envisage him being at Old Trafford next season.”
Brighton issue hands off warning
Speaking to talkSPORT, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has maintained he has received no contact from United concerning Baleba and has delivered a warning to clubs interested in securing his signature.
He said: “No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United. We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos in this window, or in any future window, but we know he’s a talented player and he’s got a lot of options ahead of him in the future.
“For us right now, he’s an important player in the second half of the season and we’re looking forward to getting him back from AFCON.”
