Manchester City Eyeing £25M Striker Known to City Football Group

Manchester City are reportedly showing interest in Manfred Ugalde, a £25 million striker currently playing for Spartak Moscow. The 22-year-old Costa Rican international has caught the eye of several Premier League clubs with his impressive goal-scoring record this season.

Ugalde, who has netted 15 goals in 18 Russian Premier Liga matches, was previously part of Lommel SK – a club owned by the City Football Group. This existing connection could potentially give Manchester City an advantage in pursuing the young talent.

The striker’s representatives have reportedly informed interested clubs, including City, Arsenal, and Chelsea, about his £25 million release clause. Other Premier League sides such as Tottenham, Liverpool, West Ham, and Newcastle United are also said to be monitoring Ugalde’s situation.

City’s interest in Ugalde comes as they look to bolster their attacking options, especially after failing to replace Julian Alvarez in the summer transfer window. The club has been heavily reliant on Erling Haaland and is exploring options to ease the burden on their star striker.

With the January transfer window approaching, Manchester City appears to be considering multiple targets to strengthen their squad. In addition to Ugalde, the club has been linked with moves for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani.

As the transfer speculation heats up, it remains to be seen whether Manchester City will make a concrete move for Ugalde or explore other options to reinforce their team for the second half of the season.