Liverpool could face 'UEFA sanctions' over £52 million transfer

Sporting Clube de Portugal could enforce 'sanctions from UEFA' should midfielder Manuel Ugarte force a move to Liverpool this summer.

Ugarte, 22, has been heavily linked with a £52 million move to Anfield once the summer transfer window opens as Jurgen Klopp pursues alternatives to England international Jude Bellingham.

It comes as no surprise that the Uruguayan is on the radar of The Reds after enjoying an impressive season in Liga Portugal, however is not the only target on Liverpool's radar as they also monitor the likes of Brighton and Hove Albion's Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea's Mason Mount, according to GOAL.

Regardless of the destination, the players representative Jorge Chiljane has made his intentions clear regarding his immediate future at the club. When questioned about the possibility Ugarte leaving, he said: “Liverpool? There is a lot of talk, but it is not the only club, there are others. There is much talk, but I am still not sure about the club. There are many possibilities on the table.

”It’s almost certain that he won’t stay, it’s sure he’ll leave. I believe that in 15 days the situation will be resolved.

“Soon I’ll be in Lisbon. I trust Jorge Mendes, who is the best agent in the world. In fact, when I told him about Ugarte for the first time, he said to me: ‘Your eyes are my eyes’.”

Manuel Ugarte in action for Sporting CP

Although individuals within the players camp seem certain regarding a potential exit, Sporting are preparing to fight any potential exit and have even threatened legal action if it does materialise.

According to Correio da Manhã via Sport Witness, the Portuguese outfit have ‘forbidden’ Ugarte from holding any talks with other clubs and have 'told the Reds that there could be sanctions from UEFA regarding the harassment of a player in the middle of the season’.

Liverpool currently find themselves in fifth place within the Premier League and will need heavy investment this summer if they are to bridge the gap to clubs such as Manchester City before the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign.