Tottenham will have some big decisions to make when revamping their squad.
Roberto De Zerbi could not inspire Tottenham Hotspur to winning ways in the Premier League in his first game in charge as his side lost 1-0 to Sunderland. With six games remaining, the hope among the fanbase would be that the Italian somehow galvanises the squad, which looks completely devoid of confidence and spirit.
Spurs certainly have their work cut out to achieve the objective of staying in the top flight, given that they are two points adrift of West Ham in 17th. Regardless of what happens at the end of the season, the squad is likely to undergo changes.
It is evident that the North Londoners need to strengthen their squad in the summer. The midfield is an area which arguably requires the most work, with Yves Bissouma set to leave upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season and Joao Palhinha unlikely to stay beyond his loan spell.
Tottenham to battle Newcastle United for Manchester United midfielder
Recent reports have linked Spurs with Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte. The Lilywhites are understood to be keeping tabs on the 25-year-old, who is expected to leave Manchester United this summer.
Manuel Ugarte has endured two disappointing seasons at Old Trafford. With Kobbie Mainoo missing, interim boss Michael Carrick turned to the Uruguayan to partner Casemiro in the middle of the park against Leeds United on Monday. It was his first start under Carrick and he struggled to make a case, as 10-man Man United were shocked 2-1 by Leeds United at Old Trafford.
Spurs aren’t the only club interested in the defensive midfielder. Newcastle United have held a long-term interest in the United misfit’s services and remain interested ahead of the summer window. Now, Football Insider transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke has revealed that Newcastle United hold a slight advantage over Tottenham in the pursuit of Ugarte.
“I think they (Newcastle) have had a long-term interest in Ugarte,” Pete O’Rourke exclusively said on Transfer Insider Podcast (h/t Football Insider).
“They looked at him when he was at Sporting Lisbon, but the last couple of moves haven’t worked out for Ugarte. First of all, at PSG, and now at Man United, he has been a bit underwhelming.
“He’s fallen out of favour this season under Michael Carrick. He’s started just eight games in the Premier League, so he’s struggled to have the desired impact that many expected.”
Tottenham must steer clear of signing Ugarte
Ugarte has turned out to be an underwhelming signing for United. After two poor campaigns, INEOS are ready to cut their losses on the Uruguayan international. The 25-year-old has demonstrated that he isn’t cut out to play in the Premier League. He has slipped down the pecking order this season and wants to leave Old Trafford.
Tottenham require a technically secure, press-resistant first-phase midfielder who can help in the build-up play in De Zerbi’s system. These qualities do not align with Ugarte’s profile, as he is primarily known for disrupting the opposition’s attacks with his tackling and intercepting skills.
As a result, the Lilywhites would be wise to stay away from the United flop and allow Newcastle to sign him.