Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, Britain - October 26, 2022. Tottenham Hotspur's Lucas Moura in action with Sporting CP's Manuel Ugarte.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have been offered the chance to bring Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte to the Premier League, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Standout performer
Julen Lopetegui made six new signings during the January transfer window but he will need to recruit further reinforcements in the summer regardless of if he’s able to maintain his side’s top-flight status.
The Uruguayan’s contract at the Jose Alvalade Stadium isn’t set to expire until 2026, but being Ruben Amorim’s top-performing defensive player, he has caught the eye of the hierarchy at Molineux.
The Latest: Wolves offered Ugarte
According to reports in Europe (via Sport Witness), Wolves have been gifted the chance to sign Ugarte with his agent, Jorge Mendes, ‘offering’ him to Lopetegui.
Sporting are currently ‘refusing’ to sanction a sale, but the 21-year-old does have a €60m (£53m release clause) included in his deal.
Barcelona and other unnamed clubs are also in the mix, but with the super agent’s strong connection to the Midlands, this could be one to watch in the months ahead.
The Verdict: Neves successor?
The Athletic have reported that Ruben Neves could be heading for the exit after failing to be persuaded to sign a new contract, so should he depart, Ugarte could be the ideal successor.
Sporting’s gem is naturally stronger in the defensive aspect of his game, where he currently ranks in the 99th percentile for most tackles and also pass accuracy.
The Montevideo native would also provide flexibility having operated as a box-to-box central midfielder alongside his more natural number six role, making him a useful option to have in the building.
Ugarte has been dubbed a ‘Uruguayan Warrior’ by talent scout Jacek Kulig and we believe he would be an excellent signing for Fosun should they successfully get a deal over the line.
Should Wolves sign Ugarte?
Yes, 100%!
No, avoid!
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