UMVA has learned that former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has joined AC Milan, and sources close to the club reveal that he's already eyeing a top summer target: Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
Amorim, who worked with Ugarte during his successful stint at Sporting, reportedly wants to revive the 25-year-old's career in Italy. Ugarte had a £42m move to Manchester United, but struggled to make an impact, rarely starting under Amorim or Michael Carrick last season.
Despite his struggles, Ugarte still has admirers across Europe, and AC Milan are lining up a summer deal. It's claimed that Carrick has informed Ugarte he's surplus to requirements and should find a new club as he prepares to welcome Ederson and at least one more midfielder to Manchester.
Ugarte accepts his future lies away from Manchester United and has told his agent, Jorge Mendes, to find him a new club. Mendes is already in talks with AC Milan, with Ugarte seemingly open to a third spell under Amorim.
Milan would still need to reach an agreement with Manchester United, who are reportedly hoping to raise £30m for Ugarte, a figure that the Serie A side are reluctant to meet. Ugarte had previously expressed his desire to stay at Old Trafford and fight for a place in the team, but it seems his mind has changed.
Gus Poyet, Ugarte's countryman, has urged him to 'make a good decision for him and his family'. Poyet had previously wanted Ugarte to join Chelsea, but now believes the midfielder needs to find the right club. With a big summer ahead, Ugarte's future is set to be decided soon.
Amorim's AC Milan are also believed to be keen on signing a new striker, with Goncalo Ramos, a former Manchester United target, high on their wishlist. As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Ugarte's next move.
