Manchester United are anxiously awaiting an update on Manuel Ugarte after the midfielder suffered a worrying injury during Uruguay's 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain in Guadalajara.
The 25-year-old was stretchered off after twisting awkwardly while attempting a tackle in the build-up to Spain's winning goal.
An emotional Ugarte left the field in visible distress, raising fears he may have sustained a serious injury.
United are expected to wait for a full medical assessment from Uruguay's team doctors before deciding on the next steps regarding the midfielder's recovery.
The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Ugarte, whose future at Old Trafford was already uncertain.
Signed from Paris Saint-Germain for £50.8 million in 2024, the Uruguayan has struggled to establish himself and fell out of favour during the closing stages of last season.
He failed to make another appearance after starting United's home defeat to Leeds on 13 April and had been widely expected to leave the club this summer, either on loan or in a permanent transfer.
Those plans are now in doubt as the immediate focus shifts to his fitness, with United hoping the injury is not as severe as initially feared.
Regardless of Ugarte's situation, Manchester United remain determined to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new campaign, with plans to bring in at least two or three new additions.
The club have already agreed a £35 million deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. However, his medical has been delayed after receiving a late call-up to Brazil's World Cup squad.
The Brazilian is now expected to complete his move once Brazil's tournament ends before reporting to Carrington following his mandatory three-week break.
United also explored a move for Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson but withdrew after deciding the transfer fee and wage demands were too high.
Negotiations with West Ham over Portugal international Mateus Fernandes remain ongoing, although no agreement has been reached, with Tottenham Hotspur also interested in the former Southampton midfielder.
Bournemouth's Alex Scott continues to be admired by United after impressing despite missing out on England's final World Cup squad, while the club also retain interest in Brighton's Carlos Baleba after seeing a bid rejected last summer.
Whether a long-term absence for Ugarte affects United's transfer budget or recruitment strategy remains to be seen, but his injury has added another layer of uncertainty to an already crucial summer rebuild at Old Trafford.
