Chelsea handed huge Manuel Ugarte boost after transfer admission as Blues make player-plus-cash offer

Chelsea have started to plan for next season and they have Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte in their sights after his big transfer decision.

The 22-year-old is the subject of interest from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, and is expected to leave Sporting this summer. According to reports in Spain, Barcelona have also been keeping tabs.

Ugarte has a €60 million release clause and personal terms offer have already been made by both Chelsea and PSG for the Uruguay international to weigh up as he decides on his next move.

Chelsea are looking to strengthen in midfield this summer, with several departures expected, and newly-appointed Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly keen on bringing Ugarte to Stamford Bridge.

Ugarte has been left with a decision to make over which club he favours a move to after similar offers were made to Sporting CP for the midfielder.

Now, as reported by Record Portugal, Ugarte has made his decision and it’s good news for Chelsea. He prefers a move to Stamford Bridge over the Parc des Princes.

Chelsea are claimed to have made an offer of €60 million, his release clause, plus €5 million in add-ons, as well as the offering of David Datro Fofana on loan for the 2023/24 season.

The priority is to offload players when the summer transfer window opens on June 14, but Chelsea are making headway in securing their targets.

Ugarte’s agent, Jorge Mendes confirmed ‘important movements’ are in the works for many of his clients, hinting that Ugarte could soon be on the move.

As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, he said: “I am sure very important movements and deals will happen this summer.

“I can’t reveal which ones… even if some of them have been already discussed.”

Chelsea are also wanting to sign a new goalkeeper and striker this summer as they look to trim their bloated 30-plus man squad.