Transfer Centre

Agent of Man United-linked Manuel Ugarte drops Liverpool transfer hint

By Ben Sully | 02 July 2024

Could Liverpool hijack Man United's Ugarte pursuit?

The agent of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte hints that Liverpool could join Manchester United in the race for the Uruguay international.

Manuel Ugarte's agent has indicated that Liverpool have entered the race to sign the Manchester United target this summer.

Ugarte is already being linked with a move away from Paris Saint-Germain despite only joining the French club in a €60m (£51m) move from Sporting Lisbon last year.

The midfielder made 37 competitive appearances during his first season with PSG, although he failed to start any of the club's Champions League knockout games.

PSG boss Luis Enrique has seemingly been left underwhelmed with Ugarte's overall performances and is prepared to let him leave Parc des Princes this summer.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Luis Enrique on February 14, 2024 © Reuters

Ugarte agent name-drops Liverpool

Man United have already registered their interest and are one of the favourites to secure his signature ahead of 2024-25 season.

Juventus and AC Milan have also been linked, but it now appears that Man United could face competition from one of their Premier League rivals.

Ugarte's agent, Jorge Chijane, mentioned Liverpool when he recently discussed the future possibilities for his client.

Chijane told O Jogo: "Liverpool? There is a lot of talk but it is not the only club, there are others. There are many possibilities on the table."

With Ugarte attracting plenty of interest, Chijane conceded that it is likely that Ugarte will leave PSG after just one season.

"It's almost certain that he won't stay, it's sure he'll leave," Chijane added. "I believe the situation will be resolved."

Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte in action on June 23, 2024 © Reuters

Why are Liverpool and Man United considering Ugarte?

Liverpool recruited Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo last summer, but they are still keen to bring in a new defensive midfielder to offer protection to the backline.

Signing Ugarte would allow Mac Allister to operate further forward after the Argentine had to perform in a deep role on several occasions last term.

Man United are also keen to strengthen their midfield options, especially with Christian Eriksen and Casemiro facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford.

Eriksen is likely to be moved on as he enters the final 12 months of his contract, while Casemiro continues to be linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.