Despite being favorites for weeks, Liverpool has now dropped out of the race to sign an international midfielder.

Liverpool may be closing in on certain midfield targets, but it appears that Manuel Ugarte will not be joining them this summer

For a long time, Sporting Lisbon’s star has been on the radar of a number of clubs. Indeed, it was only recently that it was reported that Liverpool were the frontrunners to sign the Uruguayan superstar.

However, according to a report in the Daily Mail today, Liverpool have now withdrawn from the Ugarte situation and it appears that they will not sign him.

Liverpool has backed out of a deal to sign Manuel Ugarte.
The Reds are currently linked with a number of midfielders and are thought to be close to completing a deal to sign Alexis MacAllister.

But, according to the Mail, Ugarte will not be joining Mac Allister.

Instead, Chelsea is said to be investigating the possibility of signing Ugarte. The Blues are thought to have checked in on him recently and may look to pay his £53 million release clause.

Ugarte appears to have a plethora of open suitors in England. But, for the time being, it appears that Liverpool is concentrating their efforts on other players ahead of a busy summer.

Things are heating up at Anfield.
Liverpool will undoubtedly have a very busy summer. They need some big new signings, and it’s clear that they want to get things done quickly.

If they can sign Mac Allister, they’ll be off to a good start. He is ideal for them and exactly what they require at this time.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see this one go the distance with Ugarte. So, while they don’t appear to be interested right now, the Reds may reconsider if other targets drop out.

Ugarte appears to be a quality player, and if Liverpool does not sign him, another major club will.