Could Manchester City move for a Uruguayan international to provide support for Rodri? | OneFootball

One of the most fascinating stories to watch develop from a Manchester City point of view during the transfer window has been the champion’s hunt for support for Rodri. It appears to be City’s biggest area of need this summer. Now a new report indicates that City could be poised to join the race for Uruguayan international Manuel Ugarte. As a player, Ugarte could come in and provide cover for Rodri. City’s reported interest in the PSG midfielder could be one of many stories to watch for this summer.

Le10Sport has reported that Manchester City are one of three clubs that have made ‘concrete’ moves to sign the Uruguayan international. The other clubs reported by Le10Sport are Barcelona and Manchester United. Furthermore, Le10Sport further reports that PSG manager Luis Enrique will make a final decision on whether or not PSG will sell Ugarte this summer.

Manuel Ugarte has the potential to help strengthen City’s midfield.

As a player, Manuel Ugarte does appear capable of supporting Rodri. The Uruguayan international is an exceptional defensive midfielder for both club and country. He has had an exceptional Copa America for Uruguay as they have made the semi-finals of the tournament. Ugarte also had a strong first season at PSG.

What stands out in Ugarte’s game is his exceptional work rate. This trait allows the Uruguayan international to wreak havoc in midfield. Ugarte is also strong in a challenge which helps make him a modern-day midfield destroyer. The Uruguayan is a player who can disrupt a game and regain possession for his team. He is also competent in possession while not being renowned as an attacking weapon on the ball. Ugarte is more of a defensive midfielder. It’s his defensive work and tactical nous that lays the platform for his teammates to thrive going forward. These traits could make him an option for Pep Guardiola’s side.

While Manchester City need a player to provide cover for Rodri, a player who could also partner City’s midfield general in midfield would be a welcome addition. It is well known that Rodri can be deadly going forward. If he had a player such as Ugarte in midfield alongside him it could see Rodri’s game further evolve. Manuel Ugarte has the ability to be such a player. There is an attacking side of Rodri’s game that could be further unlocked with a defensive midfielder behind him. It would be fascinating to see unfold if Manchester City did sign another holding midfielder this summer.

It remains to be seen if the world champions will move for Manuel Ugarte. Le10Sport’s report indicates that they may already have. As a player Ugarte could slot into Pep Guardiola’s squad. The Uruguayan international doesn’t come with the fanfare of some other players but he could prove to be the perfect foil for Rodri if City do move for the midfielder.