Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly is reportedly set to make a strong bid for Sporting midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who has attracted interest from other top clubs such as Liverpool and Aston Villa.
The Blues, known for their significant spending in recent transfer windows, is expected to invest heavily to reshape their squad under incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino.
The Blues are particularly keen on Ugarte as they seek to strengthen their midfield and move on from a disappointing season.
The Express suggests that Chelsea has emerged as a new option for the Uruguayan playmaker if he decides to leave Sporting.
Meetings are scheduled for next week to discuss Ugarte’s future, and Boehly has assured Sporting that concrete offers will be submitted before the start of the new season.
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Ugarte’s agent, Jorge Chijane, has confirmed interest from several top clubs. Sporting’s stance on the transfer fee remains to be seen, as Ugarte’s release clause is currently around £52 million.
Liverpool has informed the player of their intention to make a formal offer, while Aston Villa has been monitoring his performances.
When the transfer window opens next month, Chelsea is expected to join the bidding, but it remains to be seen if they can outbid Liverpool and Aston Villa.
Former Sporting winger Jorge Amaral believes it is highly unlikely that Ugarte will stay at the club beyond the current season, as an exit seems imminent.
