Leeds United transfer news as scouts watch Manuel Ugarte at Arsenal v Sporting Lisbon
Leeds United sent scouts to watch Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte in their Europa League triumph over Arsenal, according to O JOGO.
The newspaper reported in its print edition [25 March, pg 12] that Wolves are also interested in the Uruguay international, who could cost up to £52.9million.
It is said that once Sporting own 80% of the player, which is 10% more than they currently do, they will look to tie him down to a new deal to increase his release clause.
Writing in their latest edition, they wrote: “O JOGO knows that scouts from Leeds, Newcastle, Wolves and Aston Villa followed the Lions’ meeting, against Arsenal, in London.
“Leao wants to postpone the transfer until he has 80% of the pass.
“Ugarte is today, the most desirable Sporting player on the market. Know the game that Aston Villa representatives – interested in Pedro Gonçalves, Newcastle – attentive to Gonçalo Inacio for a long time – Wolves and Leeds saw the meeting and referenced the Uruguayan midfielder.”
Brave.
Despite being in the middle of yet another relegation battle in the Premier League, Leeds and Victor Orta are clearly planning for every eventuality this summer.
Of course, this one looks difficult either way given the price tag, but if the Whites were to drop into the Championship it would become impossible after a single second.
The signs do look good for if Leeds do manage to stay in the Premier League for a fourth season though, with the possibility of smashing their transfer record again on the table.
Orta may not even be at the club then, with the 49ers Enterprises set to complete their full takeover from Andrea Radrizzani, who may keep the door open behind him for the Spaniard.
Ugarte would add a little bit of everything to the midfield at Elland Road, although it wouldn’t spell good news for the likes of Weston McKennie, who could be on the first flight back to Juventus.
In other Leeds United news, the club may now face a losing battle to keep their star player at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.
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