Release clause Manuel Ugarte “fixed” with Liverpool preparing an offer
According to the latest reports, Liverpool are preparing to make their first offer for Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
The 22-year-old has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks as the Reds look to transform their midfield ahead of next season.
Liverpool are reportedly working on a proposal to sign the midfielder, with a release clause of around £52.2m.
The Portuguese News Center has reported that Liverpool will meet with Sporting representatives this week to make an offer for the player.
Liverpool scouts reportedly watched Sporting’s showdown with Famalicao last month, fueling rumors that the Uruguayan was firmly on the club’s radar ahead of the impending transfer window. Ugarte is said to be a ‘profitable asset’ at Sporting and a sale could go a long way towards helping the club balance the books, with Liverpool looking well placed to capitalise.
During his time in Primeira Liga, he has generally acted as a defensive midfielder, an area that might need to be strengthened given Fabinho’s recent form and Stefan Bajcetic’s long-term injury.
It comes as The Daily Mail’s Dom King hinted the Reds are ‘not supposed’ to push a move for another Nice deep midfielder, Khephren Thuram.
Ugarte is backed on a long list of midfield goals reported by Mason Mount, Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Matheus Nunes, but is a far more defensive player than the majority of other touted players.
Links to the likes of Moises Caicedo and Joao Palhinha suggest the club are aiming for a signing for the No.6 job to complement other purchases, but Ugarte looks the most likely if recent reports are to be believed.
Although no player deal has yet been agreed, it seems almost certain that several midfielders will arrive this summer as Jurgen Klopp looks to join a new generation in this area of the pitch. Ugarte has made 45 appearances in all competitions so far this season and his current contract expires in the summer of 2026.
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‘It can happen’ – Dutch star opens door to Liverpool or Man United move this summer
It’s been an intriguing season for both Liverpool and Man United in 2022/23, though it’s reasonably clear that both Premier League giants will need to strengthen their squads during the summer.
There are various areas of both squads that need to be addressed, with the Red Devils arguably looking for a replacement for Harry Maguire as a matter of priority.
To that end, news that Ajax star, Jurrien Timber, has all but issued a come-and-get-me plea, will be music to the ears of former manager of the club and now Man United chief, Erik ten Hag.
Jurgen Klopp will likely be keeping a watching brief on developments too, given that Vandaag Inside note via Dutch TV show Veronica Inside that Timber’s girlfriend is already house hunting in Liverpool.
Jurrien Timber in action for Ajax
“For me it is the same situation as last season. If I say: I’m leaving, it has to fit,” Timber said to Ziggy Sport, quoted by Voetbal Primeur.
“Playing style is important, playing minutes… Participating in the prizes is also important. My favorite country? I dare not say that.
“That’s why I’m doing the same as last season. The chance is there, it can happen, but I’m also good here. I’m still young and everything suits me here. I’m going to take a look.”
Given that the player can also operate at right-back, he presents an interesting proposition for either team.
From a Liverpool perspective, his hire would allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to play in the midfield role that he’s been excelling in of late.
It would also see him line up alongside countryman, Virgil van Dijk, which could well be a potential ace that the Anfield outfit hold over their north east rivals.
That said, ten Hag’s own background in the Dutch league and subsequent move to Old Trafford could swing things in United’s favour.