Ajax Eye Arsenal Star in Shock Transfer Twist After Man United Block Ugarte Exit

Ajax turn to Arsenal midfielder Christian Norgaard after Manchester United block January exit for Manuel Ugarte transfer.

Arsenal star Christian Norgaard targeted for shock transfer after Ajax were forced to change plans in the January window, following Manchester United’s decision to reject a loan approach for £42 million midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

The Eredivisie giants are actively searching for midfield reinforcements and have now identified Christian Norgaard as a potential alternative after failing to secure their primary target from Old Trafford.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Manuel Ugarte arrived at Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024 for a reported £42 million fee, but the Uruguayan has endured a difficult first season in England.

Despite expectations that the 24-year-old would become a key holding midfielder, Ugarte has struggled for consistency and minutes under manager Ruben Amorim, leading Ajax to explore a short-term loan deal earlier this month.

However, United swiftly turned down the proposal, making it clear they remain committed to Ugarte’s long-term development and have no intention of sanctioning a January exit.

Ajax Switch Focus to Arsenal’s Christian Norgaard

With Ugarte unavailable, Ajax have now redirected their attention to Arsenal midfielder Christian Norgaard, who joined the Gunners from Brentford in the summer of 2025.

The Denmark international, who captained Brentford during his Premier League spell, has found opportunities limited at the Emirates Stadium. Norgaard has made just a handful of substitute appearances in the league and has even covered in defence as an emergency option during cup competitions.

According to reports in the Netherlands, Ajax view the 31-year-old as an experienced and disciplined No.6 capable of bringing balance, leadership, and defensive structure to their midfield.

Despite Ajax’s interest, Arsenal are understood to be reluctant to allow Norgaard to leave midway through the season.

With Mikel Arteta’s side competing across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups, squad depth remains a priority. Arteta has previously praised Norgaard’s professionalism and training standards, suggesting the midfielder still plays an important role behind the scenes.

Any decision to sell or loan Norgaard would likely depend on incoming reinforcements or significant changes later in the window.

Ajax Explore Multiple Midfield Options

Norgaard is not the only name on Ajax’s shortlist. The Dutch club is considering experienced Premier League midfielders such as Wataru Endo and Edson Alvarez while assessing several profiles before the transfer deadline.

In a separate development, Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko is reportedly closing in on a permanent move to Ajax, further strengthening the relationship between the two clubs during this window.

For Arsenal, keeping Norgaard could prove vital as the season enters a decisive phase. For Ajax, Manchester United’s refusal to part with Ugarte has triggered a domino effect that could still lead to a surprise Premier League raid.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.