Newcastle United have now set their sights on signing a Premier League rival, who could replace Sandro Tonali this summer.
Newcastle facing Sandro Tonali concern
It looks set to be a long summer for the Magpies. Rumours are already surrounding the futures of Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes after a disappointing season, which could lead to disastrous consequences.
Tonali is proving to be a particular concern. The Italian is reportedly top of Manchester United's midfield shortlist this summer and could be one of a number of players seeking Champions League football.
Chief executive David Hopkinson recently had his say on any potential departures, telling reporters: "I wasn’t here for the Isak situation, so I don’t want to comment on something I didn’t see first hand. What I do know is that players that leave this club will need to do so on our terms."
As Alexander Isak proved last season, it's not always as easy as it sounds for a club to keep hold of a player on their terms. If Tonali pushes for an exit, the last thing the Magpies need is another summer-long saga.
What's more, replacing the midfielder is likely to be just as difficult as it has been to replace Isak - especially if Newcastle miss out on European football.
On that front, Lamine Camara is one name who's been mentioned as a potential target in recent weeks. The AS Monaco star has been excellent in France and would certainly be an impressive option.
lamine-camara-as-monaco
However, he's not the only player on the Magpies' shortlist. Alongside Camara, those at St James' Park have also set their sights on a Premier League rival.
Newcastle eyeing Manuel Ugarte
As reported by Caught Offside, Newcastle are now eyeing a move to sign Manuel Ugarte, who is desperate to leave Man United this summer.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe before the match Related
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Newcastle United have a huge summer ahead of them, especially if they are to reach the next level.
Of course, given United's interest in Tonali, Ugarte is likely to be surplus to requirements at Old Trafford this summer. That should allow Newcastle to land a deal of their own - perhaps even part of the Tonali transfer.
As much as the £120,000-a-week star has struggled at Man United, he wouldn't be the first player to find his best form away from the club. What is Old Trafford trash could quickly become Tyneside treasure.
PL stats P90 25/26 Ugarte Tonali
Minutes 791 2,045
Tackles 4.89 1.28
Duels Won 8.19 3.96
Recoveries 5.69 5.41
Chances Created 0.34 1.14
On a technical level, Ugarte is a step below Tonali. But by keeping hold of Guimaraes, Newcastle will only need to focus on welcoming a more combative player and that's exactly where the Uruguay international would thrive.
A "defensive monster", as dubbed by Statman Dave, those in Tyneside should take full advantage of Ugarte's situation to welcome a much-needed midfield reinforcement for Eddie Howe this summer.