Manchester United willing to sell £60 million flop this summer, Carrick praises but doesn't play! Casemiro recommends a successor

Ahead of Manchester United's Premier League match against Crystal Palace, manager Carrick surprisingly praised a player rarely seen—Manuel Ugarte. The 24-year-old Uruguayan defensive midfielder has not featured since playing just three minutes against Tottenham on February 7.

Despite the player having few opportunities under him, Carrick was full of praise: "I also really like Manuel (Ugarte). His attitude and approach to training are impressive. He possesses many excellent qualities, and when the team wins, the entire squad can benefit from a significant positive influence."

"For one or two players who haven't had much playing time, it's a bit difficult to get more minutes, but everyone is pushing each other. Many are very eager to play more. Sometimes, we may need to make some adjustments, and Manuel will be an important part of that."

However, in the subsequent 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, Carrick did not give Ugarte a single minute. This might be because the opponent was down to ten men, reducing the need to reinforce midfield defense late on. But it could also be because bringing on Ugarte might not solidify the defense and could even pose a threat to the team's own fans!

Statistics show that Ugarte has played less than 30 minutes across Carrick's seven matches in charge, and has been an unused substitute for the full 90 minutes in the last three games. If there were an award for the biggest transfer 'flop' of the Ten Hag era, Ugarte would undoubtedly be a contender.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stated clearly that Ugarte could leave Manchester United this summer. Some Serie A clubs have shown interest, while Turkish side Galatasaray expressed interest as early as the January transfer window, but United decided to retain all personnel at that time.

Ugarte himself will assess his situation at the end of the season to decide his future. If he chooses to stay, he faces being permanently benched, because although Casemiro is confirmed to leave, Kobbie Mainoo will remain, and the club plans to sign two new midfielders—at best, Ugarte would be the fourth choice.

Spanish newspaper AS reports that Casemiro personally recommended his Brazilian teammate Bruno Guimarães to Manchester United as his ideal replacement. Guimarães currently plays for Newcastle United, but the team is unlikely to secure Champions League qualification next season, with European qualification in doubt.

Many of Newcastle's key players have been linked with transfers, including another midfield stalwart, Italian international Sandro Tonali, who is also on United's rumored list. Others linked include Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, and Brighton's Carlos Baleba.

British media claim that Manchester United have already contacted Guimarães' agent. Guimarães is currently injured and will miss Wednesday's Premier League match against United at home, but United's recruitment team recognizes him as an important player.

Guimarães' current contract runs until 2028. Newcastle have been in talks over a new deal without progress. The links with Manchester United could also be a tactic by his representatives to leverage a better deal. United's final signing will depend on the next manager and tactical preferences.

According to British media reports, Guimarães has a release clause as high as £100 million, but if Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League, a gentleman's agreement allows the Brazilian midfielder to leave for a fee around £70 million.