Manuel Ugarte‘s transfer this Summer appears imminent. The 23-year-old Uruguayan has, especially, caught the attention of one Premier League heavyweight team looking to sell players, if need be, in order to finance a deal.
But what’s with all this excitement around Ugarte? Today, I look at what the player will bring to his new team in terms of tactics and skill. I will also provide my fantasy football verdict.
Manuel Ugarte’s transfer is imminent?
Uruguay impressed during the 2024 Copa America. Marcelo Bielsa’s team earned the bronze medal and its performances have inspired many football romantics across the world.
The 23-year-old Manuel Ugarte was a regular in the Uruguay line-up. He was normally utilized in a double pivot with the Real Madrid superstar Federico Valverde.
Manchester United are on the hunt for just this kind of player. Recently, Erik Ten Hag signed defender Leny Yoro who shares the same agent as Ugarte.
Fabrizio Romano reports that United are keen on signing Ugarte. Additional reports suggest that the Red Devils are willing to sell players like Scott McTominay or Casemiro in order to finance this deal.
What Ugarte brings tactically to his new club
Manuel Ugarte can, indeed, solve many of Manchester United’s current problems. The midfielder would fit well into Erik Ten Hag’s tactical plans. Let me explain.
First, and most obviously, he could take on the role of defensive midfielder, which was a serious sore point last year. Casemiro and McTominay have had strong performances across the past two years, but many feel that they are no longer helping the team grow.
Ugarte made 25 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain last season. He played as a central midfielder or in a more defensive pivot role.
While he was not made a priority for PSG’s star-filled squad, Ugarte’s excellent tackling, together with his passing, dribbling skills and ability to intercept the ball make him a potential future superstar.
Furthermore, Ugarte, although young, doesn’t lose his head under pressure. He averaged 3.9 tackles per game in Ligue 1m and 4.2 at Copa America. He commits 1.8 fouls per game, but generally avoids getting booked.
While this is not his most important trait, Ugarte can also contribute offensively. Ugarte managed two assists last season, and his passing and dribbling make him a player with real potential for the Premier League.
Fantasy football verdict for Ugarte
Manuel Ugarte is a 2* player in FootballCoin and will be quite affordable in other fantasy football games.
Should you make Ugarte part of your fantasy football team for next season? Yes!
While this may still seem like a long shot, the defensive midfielder has proven he has all the qualities to reveal himself as one of the best players in this position in the modern game.
