Manuel Ugarte’s agent tips Liverpool transfer battle with Man Utd and Chelsea

Manchester United’s pursuit of Uruguay midfielder standout Manuel Ugarte has hit a snag, courtesy of the player’s representative.

Ugarte turned heads at the Copa America, not missing a minute for the tournament’s most successful side, and his commanding displays did not go unnoticed by the Red Devils. Erik ten Hag views the PSG midfielder as the perfect replacement for Casemiro, who looks set to leave Old Trafford, with Ugarte potentially becoming the inaugural signing under potential owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

However, Liverpool have unexpectedly appeared in conversations about Ugarte’s future, according to comments from his agent. After a less-than-stellar spell following his move from Sporting CP, the Parisian club’s star looks set for a summer exit.

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His next chapter may or may not be in England, but according to his agent Jorge Chijane, there is no lack of interest. Chijane intriguingly mentioned one club in particular while speaking to O Jogo, according to Mirror Football.

Chijane said: “Liverpool? There is a lot of talk, but it is not the only club, there are others. There are many possibilities on the table.”

He further confirmed the likelihood of Ugarte leaving PSG, saying: “It is almost certain that he will not stay, it is certain that he will leave. I think the situation will be resolved.”

Liverpool, like rivals United, had a void to fill following the departure of the ubiquitous Fabinho in the summer of 2023 and were linked with Ugarte ahead of his move to Paris. The Reds have bolstered their midfield with the signings of Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch, but are still looking for further reinforcements in that area.

Chelsea also expressed an interest in signing Ugarte in 2023 and were favorites to secure his services before pulling out of the deal which saw Ugarte move to Paris. However, a potential move to England is once again on the cards.

Despite limited playing time at club level, Ugarte’s talent remains undiminished and it looks like both United and Liverpool will be in the running for his signature when he decides on his next move.