Liverpool to miss out on transfer target

Liverpool may have a problem getting key transfer targets to sign for the club this summer as they reportedly face a number of competitions, starting with Sporting CP’s midfielder, Manuel Ugarte.

Liverpool’s hopes of securing the services of midfielder Manuel Ugarte have suffered a blow, with reports emerging that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is on the verge of finalizing a deal for the highly-rated youngster.

Ugarte has been among the names linked with a move to Anfield this summer, as Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp plans a significant squad overhaul. The club recently confirmed the departures of James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Arthur Melo, and Roberto Firmino, creating space for new signings.

Earlier this week, Portuguese outlet Record revealed that Liverpool officials were preparing for talks with Ugarte, who was seen as a potentially cost-effective option compared to other midfield targets.

However, it appears that PSG has now emerged as a strong contender for the 22-year-old’s signature. French news outlet L’Equipe reports that PSG’s football director, Luis Campos, is keen to bolster the team’s midfield this summer and has identified Ugarte as a key target.

Negotiations between PSG and Ugarte are said to be at an advanced stage, and despite interest from Liverpool and Arsenal, the French capital is believed to be his preferred destination.

PSG is reportedly willing to meet the €60 million release clause set by Sporting Lisbon for Ugarte. However, a separate report from Sports Zone suggests that Campos is trying to negotiate a lower fee for the promising midfielder.

Manuel Ugarte

Meanwhile, Liverpool is progressing in their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, who has made a notable impact on the south coast this season. After withdrawing from the race to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, Mac Allister has become the primary target for the Merseyside club.

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano provided an update on the situation, stating that Liverpool is close to reaching a full agreement on personal terms with the player, with only final details remaining to be ironed out.

The setback in securing Ugarte’s signature will require Liverpool to reassess their options in midfield as they continue their summer recruitment drive.

While the club is poised to bring in Mac Allister, missing out on Ugarte to PSG represents a significant blow in their pursuit of strengthening the squad for the upcoming season.