Manchester United Target Douglas Luiz as Perfect Partner for Ugarte in Summer Transfer
As Manchester United prepare for a crucial summer rebuild under the direction of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, attention has turned to strengthening a midfield that has lacked both stability and intensity. Two key targets have emerged: Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz and Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte. Luiz, who has been a driving force behind Villa’s push for Champions League qualification, is seen as a transformative addition. His ability to win possession, control tempo, and contribute offensively makes him a prime candidate to step into a midfield currently hampered by inconsistency and aging legs.
Luiz delivered an outstanding campaign in 2024/25, contributing seven goals and six assists from midfield. Beyond statistics, his influence is evident in how he dictates play and supports both ends of the pitch. For United, who have struggled to find the right midfield balance due to injuries and poor form, Luiz would represent a much-needed upgrade. Alongside him, the club is making headway in discussions for Ugarte, a tenacious ball-winner whose strength lies in his aggressive pressing and defensive awareness. Though not a regular starter under Luis Enrique, the Uruguayan’s qualities are well-suited for Premier League battles.
The idea of pairing Luiz with Ugarte offers a compelling blend of steel and style — a combination United have sorely lacked in recent years. Ugarte could provide the defensive cover and intensity, while Luiz takes on a more progressive role, linking play and offering creative support. This prospective midfield pairing echoes the effective partnerships of past United sides, capable of dominating games through contrasting but complementary skill sets.
INEOS’s approach appears to favor players entering their peak, with Luiz at 26 and Ugarte at 23, signifying a deliberate move away from short-term fixes like Casemiro and Eriksen. The goal is to build a core of technically sound, tactically aware, and physically resilient players. Integrating them with current talents such as Bruno Fernandes and the emerging Kobbie Mainoo could create a versatile and formidable midfield rotation for the coming seasons.
However, these upgrades will come at a cost. Luiz, under contract with Villa until 2026, could command a fee between £50–60 million. While Arsenal have shown long-standing interest, United’s refreshed ambition and possible Champions League qualification may tip the scales. Ugarte’s fee is expected to hover around £40 million, with PSG open to negotiations. Combined, these transfers could exceed £100 million — a hefty investment, but one that aligns with United’s vision of long-term squad building.
Securing both players would allow for tactical flexibility, offering options like a 4-2-3-1 with Luiz and Ugarte shielding the defense, or a 4-3-3 that enhances midfield fluidity. Their presence would also relieve pressure on United’s backline, which has often been left exposed. Importantly, this duo could help re-establish control in matches where United have often been overrun, particularly in high-stakes contests.
The arrival of Luiz and Ugarte could also trigger a reshuffling of the current squad. Casemiro, one of the club’s highest earners, may be moved on, potentially to a Saudi Arabian club. Donny van de Beek is likely to depart, and Scott McTominay’s future remains uncertain. The key for United will be to balance this midfield overhaul without neglecting other areas of the squad, including central defense and the forward line.
Ultimately, United’s pursuit of Luiz and Ugarte reflects a thoughtful and strategic shift in transfer policy. By targeting dynamic and disciplined midfielders with complementary strengths, the club is laying the groundwork for a sustainable return to elite competition. If both deals are finalized, the 2025/26 season could mark the beginning of a new, more cohesive era at Old Trafford — one driven by purpose, planning, and a reinvigorated midfield core.
