In a recent print edition, Record stated that Newcastle United are among the clubs hoping to sign Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte. It has been claimed that the Magpies will face competition in the form of Tottenham Hotspur in pursuit of the Uruguay international.
Ugarte’s Impressive Run Of Form In Portuguese Football This Season
Ugarte is having a solid campaign at the Estádio José Alvalade as he has managed to put in a run of impressive displays at the heart of Sporting’s midfield. The 21-year-old has been involved in 37 matches for the Portuguese outfit but has failed to register a goal for them so far this season across all competitions.
The South American talent has given a good account of himself at the centre of the park based on his average of 3.9 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 0.6 clearances, 0.7 shots and 1.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from midfield after making 91% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Portuguese football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Portuguese club will expire in the summer of 2026. Therefore, Newcastle United will have to launch a big offer if they are serious about winning the race for his services at the end of this campaign.
Is Ugarte A Decent Choice For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Ugarte is a tough-tackling midfielder who can do a little bit of everything at the centre of the park. He can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team and usually puts his foot through the ball when needed.
The Uruguay sensation can also make a few clever runs with the ball from midfield but needs to add some goals and assists to his game if he wants to become a world-class footballer someday.
At the moment, Ugarte is enjoying his rapid rise in Portuguese football. He is well-equipped to enhance the overall quality of Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe‘s midfield for the long run. He might even help the Magpies challenge for some top honours over the next decade.
At 21, the future is quite bright for Ugarte which makes him a great choice for the Tyneside club to pursue in the summer.
