As per the print edition of Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Tottenham Hotspur will keep a close eye on Uruguayan midfielder, Manuel Ugarte at the upcoming World Cup.
Previously, it has been reported by Record that Antonio Conte’s side were interested in signing the Sporting CP lynchpin.
With several clubs expected to make a move for players that shine in Qatar, it is interesting to note that Spurs could do the same if Ugarte impresses for one of the dark horses at the tournament.
Tottenham’s need for strength-in-depth in midfield
While the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur and Pierre Emile-Hojberg have impressed in particular for Spurs in midfield, there seems to be an alarming lack of bodies for the Champions League hopefuls in the middle of the park.
Yves Bissouma is still finding his feet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, while Oliver Skipp is widely regarded as one for the future.
From a qualitative perspective as well, it has to be acknowledged that Tottenham most certainly should be open to reinforce perhaps the most key area of the pitch.
With Spurs looking far from convincing in 4th place at the minute, it could well be a case that the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United usurp them in the league table if they decide not to further bolster their squad.
Considering Antonio Conte favours a double pivot, a natural defensive midfielder such as Manuel Ugarte by trade, who is known to be a tenacious tackler whilst also being technically proficient could well be the perfect fit in Tottenham’s 3-4-3 system.
Is the deal doable?
It is likely that the experienced Matias Vecino is preferred to the 21-year old at the base of midfield for Uruguay in Qatar, which could prove to be good news for Spurs.
On a number of occasions, sales for unearthed gems that grab the headlines at the World Cup are sanctioned are premium prices.
With there being a strong chance that Ugarte starts on the bench for his national side at the showpiece event, Tottenham Hotspur could pull off a deal for a reasonable price, whether that is in January or in the summer.
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