Tottenham Want Manuel Ugarte but European Heavyweight Is Leading the Chase

Tottenham Want Manuel Ugarte but European Heavyweight Is Leading the Chase

Juventus are believed to be among the clubs keeping a close eye on the situation of Manuel Ugarte, although negotiating with Italian sides in Serie A can often prove complicated. Clubs in Italy frequently favour complex loan structures with various clauses rather than straightforward permanent transfers, which can make deals lengthy and difficult to finalise.

Meanwhile, there is also growing interest from the Premier League. Both Aston Villa and Newcastle United are monitoring developments surrounding the midfielder’s future at Manchester United. However, reports from TEAMtalk indicate that Tottenham Hotspur have also joined the list of clubs paying attention to the situation and could potentially enter the race for his signature.

Spurs join the list of interested clubs

According to the report, Juventus have admired Ugarte for quite some time, while several English clubs remain alert to any opportunity that might arise. “Juventus are long-term admirers, while Premier League sides Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Tottenham have all previously tracked his situation and remain informed on developments,” the report explains.

Villa are reportedly considering strengthening their midfield options during the upcoming summer transfer window. This is largely due to uncertainty surrounding the future of Ross Barkley, whose long-term role at the club remains unclear. Newcastle, on the other hand, could also be forced into the market if Sandro Tonali pushes for a move away from St James’ Park, with the Italian midfielder believed to be open to exploring a new challenge.

For Tottenham, the situation is slightly different. The North London club are expected to undergo a significant squad rebuild this summer under their new head coach Roberto De Zerbi. After what has been another hugely disappointing league campaign, changes to the midfield department could become a priority for Spurs as they attempt to reshape the squad and restore competitiveness.

However, Tottenham’s ability to seriously pursue Ugarte may depend heavily on their league status. The Lilywhites currently find themselves in a precarious position in the table, sitting just one point above the relegation zone and enduring the worst run of form in the division. As a result, any potential move could hinge on whether they manage to avoid relegation and remain in the Premier League.

Galatasaray currently leading the race

Despite the interest from several clubs across Europe, a move to Turkey is currently considered the most realistic outcome for Ugarte. Galatasaray are said to be in a strong position to secure the midfielder’s signature in the coming months, and Manchester United are reportedly open to letting him leave if the right offer arrives.

Final thoughts

Manchester United’s primary focus this summer is expected to be a major rebuild in midfield. The departure of Casemiro appears increasingly likely after club owners INEOS reportedly decided not to extend the contract of the 34-year-old Brazilian veteran. With that in mind, United are planning to bring in at least two new midfield options at Old Trafford as they look to strengthen the squad and avoid repeating mistakes made in recent transfer windows.

Ideally, the club would like to offload Ugarte as well, potentially alongside other midfielders, to make room for fresh arrivals. However, such plans depend heavily on whether United can receive a suitable transfer fee. Reports suggest the club would want more than £25 million for the Uruguayan, a figure that may be difficult to achieve if Galatasaray remain the frontrunners.

That said, the situation could quickly change if one of England’s bigger clubs — such as Tottenham — decides to step in and accelerate negotiations. Should that happen, Manchester United’s chances of securing a higher transfer fee would increase significantly, potentially reshaping the race for Ugarte’s signature.