Transfer Talk: Chelsea set to announce Ugarte as first summer signing

Jamie Gordon

LiveScore

Manuel Ugarte joined Sporting CP in 2021

Manuel Ugarte is set to become Chelsea's first summer signing after agreeing a six-year contract.

The Blues endured a dismal season despite splashing the cash over the last two windows and are yet to confirm who will be in the dugout next term.

But according to reports in Uruguay, Todd Boehly is pressing ahead with his plans and has agreed to meet the defensive midfielder's £52million release clause.

Liverpool have also been strongly linked with the eight-cap Uruguayan international, 22, and could yet pip their rivals as Jurgen Klopp masterminds a midfield revamp.

Ugarte's agent has revealed he expects his client to be on the move when the window opens but remained tight-lipped about his potential destination.

Chelsea shelled out more than £100m to sign Argentina's Enzo Fernandez after his superb World Cup and could potentially partner the young playmakers together for years to come.

Mason Mount's future at Stamford Bridge is up in the air after talks over a new contract stalled, while N'Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic have also been linked with exits.

Centre forward is another issue for the Blues, with Italian media suggesting that Mauricio Pochettino could give Inter Milan loanee Romelu Lukaku a chance to impress should he take over.