Liverpool have sounded out the representatives of Manuel Ugarte, with talks advancing for the 22-year-old midfield star.
According to Record, Liverpool submitted a proposal to the representatives of Manuel Ugarte. The Reds have emerged as the top contender for the 22-year-old midfield star, who was previously linked with Newcastle United and Tottenham.
Manuel Ugarte has made a significant mark with his performances this season. He has seen his stature with Sporting CP rise, albeit unwillingly; they may open the doors for an exit. The Portuguese side may want the 22-year-old midfield star to continue playing for them and hope to have at least one more season here.
But, with his €60 million release clause public knowledge, many clubs could come in with offers. Sporting would want the amount paid in full; clubs often find a way to negotiate the price or at least the payment structures.
The 22-year-old midfield star has a tremendous following in the Premier League. Newcastle United were heavily linked with a move up until now. The Magpies were keen to secure the signing and willing to pay his €60 million release clause.
Tottenham joined them in showing an interest, and the north Londoners were even watching the Uruguayan at the World Cup. Chelsea are also considered a top contender as they look to dip into the Portuguese market after signing Enzo Fernandez in January.
Liverpool have emerged as front-runners, with the report claiming they were in advanced talks to sign the 22-year-old midfield star. Whether those discussions are ongoing with Sporting remains the question. The story insists they have submitted a proposal to Ugarte’s agents.
That may point towards a contract proposal for the Uruguayan midfielder. Liverpool may agree on personal terms, among other things like agent fees. Once they have a clear path with the 22-year-old midfield star and his entourage, the Merseysiders will then sit with Sporting to discuss the fee.
His release clause of €60 million may seem reasonable in this market; Liverpool have good connections in Portugal to broker deals. They recently signed Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz from Benfica and Porto. They could apply similar tactics to bring the price to a level playing ground.
Moreover, clubs often hesitate to play release clauses in full, as Liverpool will look to structure the payments. Jurgen Klopp wants to revamp his midfield options. Before the window opens, they are already close to signing Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton.
If Klopp manages to bring the duo, it will come across as a statement of intent from Liverpool. They might look to bring in another midfielder. They could then shift their attention towards buying a central defender and possibly a fullback.