Manchester United await medical update after Manuel Ugarte suffers knee injury on World Cup duty

Manchester United remain on edge as they await fresh medical information on Manuel Ugarte following a knee problem picked up while the midfielder was on international duty with Uruguay.

The 25-year-old left the pitch on a stretcher in visible distress during Uruguay's 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain. He appeared to twist his left knee, fuelling concern that he may have sustained a serious ligament injury. The full scale of the damage has not yet been established.

The incident arrives at a delicate moment for United, where the outcome could ripple through the club's transfer planning. Ugarte has been the subject of exit speculation after finding consistent minutes hard to come by since his move from Paris Saint-Germain about two years ago.

Old Trafford is already overhauling its midfield ranks. A deal has been agreed to bring in Atalanta's Ederson, while discussions continue over a possible move for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes.

If Ugarte is ruled out for a prolonged period, United may have to retain him rather than sell, which would limit their scope to add another midfielder this summer. That could push the club to prioritise other positions instead, including a left-sided option and cover at goalkeeper, as preparations for the new season gather pace.