Manchester United’s hopes of restructuring their midfield have suffered a significant setback after Manuel Ugarte sustained a major knee injury while representing Uruguay at the World Cup.

Michael Carrick’s side had been preparing for a major midfield revamp this summer as they gear up for a return to the Champions League. Reports indicated that a £35 million deal for Atlanta’s Ederson had already been finalised, with Aurelien Tchouameni, Sandro Tonali, and Matheus Fernandes also identified as potential signings.

However, the club’s transfer activity was expected to depend on player sales, and several current squad members had been made available for transfer to generate funds.

Among them was Ugarte, who had attracted interest from Serie A clubs. Unfortunately for United, those plans have been derailed after the midfielder suffered a serious injury.

Ugarte was stretchered off during Uruguay’s 1-0 loss to Spain on Friday night, a result that confirmed Uruguay’s elimination from the tournament. Manchester United have since confirmed the severity of his injury.

A club statement said: “Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has suffered a knee ligament injury whilst representing Uruguay in Friday's World Cup group-stage match against Spain.”

“Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale. Everyone wishes Manuel a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way.”

Although the exact recovery timeline has not yet been disclosed, Ugarte is expected to be sidelined for several months, effectively ruling out any potential summer transfer.

As a result, United will now need to explore alternative avenues to raise transfer funds. Striker Joshua Zirkzee, currently part of the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, is expected to be made available for transfer this summer. Marcus Rashford is also anticipated to leave, despite Barcelona’s decision earlier this year not to make his loan move permanent. Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is another player tipped to move on.