By Daniel Feliciano

20th Apr, 2023 | 5:40pm

Leeds United want to sign Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte, will make bid on one condition

Leeds United are ready to make a bid for Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte so long as they avoid relegation from the Premier League, according to Record (19 April).

The Whites have been linked with a move for the Uruguay international, who is believed to have a release clause in his contract worth £52.7m.

The 21-year-old has attracted attention from the likes of Newcastle, AC Milan and Roma but Leeds are ready to make their move after sending scouts to watch him in action.

The report states that Victor Orta is a big fan of the midfielder and wants to bring him to Elland Road, but a move will only be considered should the team avoid relegation.

Leeds currently sit outside the relegation zone on goal difference with seven games remaining this season.

Statement

Ugarte would be an absolutely huge signing for Leeds, with the defensive midfielder shining in the Champions League, Europa League and domestically for Sporting this season.

Described as “Outstanding” by journalist Juan Pablo Romero, his reputation has been growing across the continent and he’s clearly ready for a move away from Portugal having rejected an offer of a new contract.

£52m is obviously incredibly difficult to spend for Leeds, especially after the season they have had, and if they’re able to negotiate that down it would be ideal.

But they may have to just stump up the cash to bring him in early ahead of the competition for his signature, who are all likely to have European football to offer in one way or another.

It seems like a very difficult deal to pull off but Orta will know that, and he managed to do it for Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and others when people didn’t expect he’d be able to.

In other Leeds news, Orta has been busy with summer plans after convincing this player to move to Elland Road.