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UEFA Champions League

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Atletico Madrid Eintracht Frankfurt

30/09/25 21:00:00

1.65 4.00 4.75

 PUBLICIDAD

Atlético de Madrid has set its sights on Manuel Ugarte as a reinforcement for the winter transfer market, seeking a positional midfielder to enhance rotation in their double pivot.

Currently, players like Koke, Pablo Barrios, Conor Gallagher, and Johnny Cardoso form the core of the midfield, but none provide the positional defensive profile that Simeone considers essential to balance the team in all competitions.

Profile of Manuel Ugarte

Manuel Ugarte, 24, arrived at Manchester United in the summer of 2024 and has since played 49 games, although he has not performed at the level shown at Sporting de Portugal, where he was considered one of Europe's best young midfielders. Nevertheless, his defensive ability, game reading, and physical prowess attract Simeone's attention, who greatly values the tactical role of a positional midfielder in his scheme.

The interest of Atlético de Madrid arises from Ruben Amorim's request to Manchester United, who is looking to strengthen his midfield. This opens the door to Ugarte's departure in January, facilitating a strategic move for both parties.

Offer and Conditions by Atlético de Madrid

The red and white club would be willing to formalize Ugarte's arrival through a loan with a purchase option close to 30 million euros. This operation is partly justified by the possible sale of Conor Gallagher in the short term to the Premier League, which would allow budget release and accommodate a midfielder who fulfills a specific role in the double pivot.

Atlético has significantly invested in the summer, spending 176 million euros on acquisitions such as Álex Baena, Dávid Hancko, Johnny Cardoso, Giacomo Raspadori, Thiago Almada, Matteo Ruggeri, Marc Pubill, Juan Musso, and Nico González. This explains why Ugarte's arrival is only considered as a temporary loan.

Ugarte's Motivation and International Context

For Ugarte, a move to Atlético de Madrid represents the opportunity to once again be a protagonist, accumulate crucial minutes, and regain confidence before the FIFA World Cup 2026. His goal is to establish himself as a starter in Uruguay's national team under Marcelo Bielsa and maintain the level that earned him international recognition.

Atlético's double pivot would benefit from a player with defensive projection, recovery capability, and game management in transition. Simeone seeks to strengthen his squad without compromising the investment made, ensuring a balance between youth and experience in a team that aims to compete in LaLiga, the Champions League, and other international competitions.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Manuel Ugarte, en la mira del Atlético de Madrid para enero