Aston Villa in hunt for 'staggeringly brilliant' forward with £25 million release clause
Aston Villa have been named as one of a host of Premier League sides following the progress of the Russian Premier League's top scorer.
Manfred Ugalde has bagged 15 goals in 18 appearances in the top tier of Russian football so far this season, making a name for himself as one of Europe's brightest stars. The 22-year-old joined Spartak Moscow last January from Dutch side FC Twente, but could be on the move again just 12 months after the transfer.
The Costa Rican forward has already played for three European clubs, being brought over to the continent by Belgian side Lommel who are owned by the City Group. Manchester City therefore are already aware of Ugalde and are one of the leading names in the race for his signature.
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According to TBR Football, Villa are one of 11 Premier League clubs keeping track of the Central American. With the Russian league now on a winter break until March, now could prove a good time to lodge an effort to sign Ugalde.
Due to the nature of his Spartak contract which contains a release clause, the striker is available for just £25 million which could accelerate interest from England. This could tempt Unai Emery and his colleagues to pursue a deal early. With interest in star man Jhon Durán hotting up, Ugalde could provide an exciting alternative should an enticing bid come in for the Colombian.
