Manchester City are now monitoring Spartak Moscow’s 22-year-old striker, Manfred Ugalde, ahead of the January transfer window; a recent report by TBR Football confirmed. The Costa Rican international has been in stunning form this season, netting 16 goals in 22 appearances.
Ugalde’s impressive performances, coupled with a £25 million release clause in his contract, have attracted interest from several clubs, including City, Arsenal, and Chelsea.
City are especially keen on bolstering their attacking options, with manager Pep Guardiola currently lacking a reliable backup for Erling Haaland, who has remained fit so far this season. The absence of a proper understudy for Haaland was felt when Julian Alvarez was sold to Atletico Madrid in the summer.
RECALL:
The need for a striker option to ease the pressure on Haaland has become more apparent as City push for silverware across multiple competitions. Without a solid alternative up top, the team’s attacking depth remains a concern.
Ugalde could fill that gap, having been previously scouted by City Football Group in 2020 when he was signed for Lommel S.K. before moving on to FC Twente and Spartak Moscow.
QUOTES:
Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the squad’s lack of depth in the striker department, stating:
“Erling has been fantastic, but we need to be realistic. We can’t expect him to carry the team alone every time. We need options, and we are exploring those.”
CITATIONS:
TBRFootball first reported Manchester City’s interest in Ugalde, noting that the forward’s £25 million release clause makes him an appealing target. Reports also highlight the interest from Arsenal and Chelsea in signing the striker.
KEEP IN MIND:
While Ugalde’s goalscoring form in Russia has been impressive, it remains to be seen if his success can translate to the Premier League.
With his buyout clause relatively low, it presents a minimal risk for City and their Premier League rivals, making him a viable option for a January move.
