Loan with £26m obligation: League leaders expect Utd to accept their bid after ex-Arsenal star ‘vouches’ for target

Galatasaray and Manchester United remain in contact over a potential winter deal for Manuel Ugarte.The Super Lig leaders had been in hot pursuit of Ugarte in the build-up to the window opening and are now poised to intensify their efforts amidst United’s turbulent situation.Manuel Ugarte to Galatasaray: The state of play(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)According to Turkish outlet Sabah, as relayed by Sport Witness, ex-Arsenal star Lucas Torriera has ‘vouched’ for compatriot Ugarte to join him in Istanbul, and has informed the board that he’d be a beneficial addition.From United’s point of view, they’d be willing to accept a loan plus a £26 million buy obligation to facilitate the midfielder’s departure before the February 2 deadline.However, Galatasaray would’ve liked to wait and see if they would qualify for the Champions League knockout stages before committing to such an arrangement.The 24-year-old signed for United in a £50.5m deal in August 2024, but has done very little to live up to his exorbitant price tag on the pitch – hence the club setting such a low buy clause if he were to leave.Will Ugarte benefit from Ruben Amorim’s exit?(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Yet, after Monday’s developments, Ugarte might want to stick around at Old Trafford to gauge what kind of role he will play under Darren Fletcher and the next permanent manager, having been utilised sparingly by Ruben Amorim prior to his dismissal.In the 20 Premier League matches United have played this season, the Uruguayan has made 14 appearances; six as a starter and eight as a substitute, while he was also an unused option for six whole games.He has only been granted a more prominent role in the most recent outings due to the absences of Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount, so he will likely be aware that his minutes are set to be slashed when the midfield duo return from injury. Season Appearances (starts) Minutes played 2025/2026 15 (7) 687 2024/2025 45 (36) 2,893 *Ugarte’s record in all competitions since joining United (Transfermarkt)