Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly among several Premier League clubs interested in Spartak Moscow striker Manfred Ugalde, who has drawn comparisons to former Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero. The 22-year-old has been in scintillating form, scoring 15 goals in 18 Russian Premier League appearances this season.
Ugalde’s performances have caught the attention of top European clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Barcelona, Aston Villa, and Tottenham. Newcastle United, Brentford, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest are also said to be monitoring the Costa Rican striker.
According to TBR Football, Spartak Moscow has placed a £25 million valuation on Ugalde and could entertain offers during the January transfer window. While Arsenal have been linked with a potential move for the forward, the form of Gabriel Jesus—who recently scored a hat-trick against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup—and Mikel Arteta’s preference for using Kai Havertz in the No. 9 role could influence the club’s decision.
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Ugalde made headlines in November by becoming the first player in Russian Premier League history to score four goals in a single game during Spartak’s 5-2 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow. His first goal in that match showcased his relentless energy as he capitalised on a goalkeeper’s hesitation, blocking a clearance and sending the ball spinning into the net.
Arsenal - Manfred Ugalde
Spartak Moscow forward Manfred Ugalde (Image credit: Getty Images)
The striker’s contract reportedly includes a £25 million release clause, making him an affordable option in the current market for strikers. Former Spartak director Alexander Shikunov endorsed Ugalde’s value, stating, “He is already worth 25 million euros, minimum. Any European club will buy him.”
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Spartak Moscow legend Yuri Semin also praised Ugalde’s qualities. Speaking toSport24, he said, “The best player of 2024 is Ugalde. Firstly, a striker must score goals, and he has scored more goals than anyone else. Secondly, he handled criticism well, and now there are no doubts about his qualities.”
Teammate Theo Bongonda echoed these sentiments in an interview withEuro Football. “If you are a striker, you have to score a lot. Ugalde is a good striker, so everything works out for him. Perhaps [he is similar to] Aguero. But, overall, Manfred is one of a kind. He is a special player and a great person. I am sure he has a great future ahead of him,” Bongonda said.
With the January transfer window approaching, Ugalde’s performances and growing reputation could see him become one of the most sought-after players in the market.
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