Napoli Identify Manuel Ugarte As Alternative To Kobbie Mainoo

Manuel Ugarte has emerged as a transfer target for Napoli as the Serie A giants seek an alternative to Kobbie Mainoo. 

Ugarte has come under criticism since joining the Red Devils in August 2024. The Uruguayan midfielder even felt the wrath of boss Ruben Amorim owing to his below par performances.

Nonetheless, his resurgence against Newcastle has caught the eye of the Partenopei. So much so that he has been earmarked to fill the void that Mainoo was potentially going to fill.

Competition for Ugarte is expected to be fierce, however. Turkish champions Galatasaray are very much in the running for his signature alongside Lyon.

🚨 Galatasaray are exploring a loan move for Manuel Ugarte, with an option to buy set at around €25M.

Lyon and Napoli are also monitoring the situation.

(Source: Fotomac) pic.twitter.com/CoqRX0CTP4

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 29, 2025

Manuel Ugarte Transfer News Reveals Napoli Interest

According to Fotomac, Napoli has joined the race for Manuel Ugarte. The 2025 Supercoppa winners are prioritizing their midfield in January owing to the injuries suffered by Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour and Frank Anguissa.

Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher has also been identified but Ugarte is viewed as a more affordable choice. The former PSG star will likely cost approximately €25million in January.

Although Bruno Fernandes is injured and Casemiro is in his twilight years, Manchester United are keen to keep hold of the Partenopei’s long-term target Kobbie Mainoo.

The English midfielder has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford this season. United are now hesitant to let him leave but head coach Ruben Amorim is happy to let Ugarte seek a new venture.

Manuel Ugarte Style Of Play

Having shined in the recent victory over Newcastle, supporters have been reminded of just how tenacious a midfielder Manuel Ugarte is.

Against the Magpies, his no-nonsense and tough-tackling display helped Manchester United to a fine 1-0 win. Ugarte was pivotal in breaking up play, protecting his defenders and his all round stamina helped inspire his teammates.

Something of which Napoli head coach Antonio Conte wants to install into his side. Although Ugarte has generally struggled in England, he previously sparkled for PSG and offers an abundance of experience.

That is why Ugarte alerted Lazio earlier this year. Maurizio Sarri’s men were also keen on the 24-year-old but have since identified other targets owing to their financial constraints.

Given time and heightened confidence, Ugarte would likely make a fine addition to Serie A. His overall competitiveness could make the difference in Conte retaining the Scudetto.

Napoli’s Transfer Targets

On December 29, FootItalia’s exclusive revealed Napoli’s interest in Oscar Bobb. The Norway international is seeking more minutes on the pitch and the Partenopei are keeping a watchful eye over the Manchester City man.

Real Madrid wonderkid Franco Mastantuono remains a target despite Los Blancos rejecting Gli Azzurri’s loan approach after Christmas.

Elsewhere, Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor is also on Antonio Conte’ shortlist. However, the Dutchman would be more likely to join in the summer than in January.

West Ham midfielder and former AC Milan man Lucas Paqueta is also on Conte’s radar. The Brazilian is keen to leave the Hammers with the club battling relegation.

Nonetheless, Manuel Ugarte has a fine chance of moving to the Maradona Stadium next month. After Scott McTominay’s successes and Rasmus Hojlund’s resurgence, Ugarte would be naive to turn down the opportunity to replicate his former teammates.