Liverpool are ‘ready to submit’ a bid to sign a combative midfielder who’d make Jurgen Klopp’s side a nightmare to play against, and the emergence of a release clause should make a deal straightforward, per a report.

Since reeling back from their pursuit of Jude Bellingham, Liverpool have begun to accelerate several other midfield moves.

Indeed, Alexis Mac Allister is high on Liverpool’s radar and Fabrizio Romano has stressed the Argentine will “100 percent” leave Brighton this summer.

The Reds are yet to submit a formal offer, though reports have suggested a ‘verbal agreement’ over personal terms has been struck.

Elsewhere, the trusted Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed Liverpool are among the “most interested” clubs chasing Inter Milan ace, Nicolo Barella. Reds officials have heavily scouted Barella in 2023 and will get another chance to do so tonight.

The likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Mason Mount and more recently Moises Caicedo have been linked. However, today’s update regards Sporting Lisbon and Uruguay midfielder, Manuel Ugarte.

The 22-year-old is known for his irrepressible engine, tough tackling and combative nature in the engine room.

In essence, he’s the type of midfielder opposing players hate facing and would add much-needed steel and bite to Klopp’s midfield that has looked a light touch at times this season.

Portuguese outlet Record have run the rule on Ugarte’s future on Wednesday. As cited by the Liverpool Echo, it’s claimed the Reds are preparing to make their move.

Liverpool bid readied; release clause revealed

Indeed, Liverpool are reportedly ready to ‘submit their opening bid’ for Ugarte who it’s noted has been on the club’s radar for quite some time.

A Ugarte deal should be straightforward in theory given the presence of a release clause. The Uruguayan can be poached if a side stump up €60m (approx. £52m).

However, it’s important to note the report does not say Liverpool will activate the clause straight away. Instead, they word the situation as Liverpool preparing an ‘opening bid’.

That would suggest Liverpool intend to come in with a lower offer in the hopes of securing an agreement at reduced price point.

If unsuccessful, all eyes will then be on whether Liverpool go back in and pay full price.

Ugarte has racked up 45 appearances for Sporting Lisbon this term, with the vast bulk of those coming as starts.

He’s yet to score a single goal this season and has registered just one assist. However, that should not come as a surprise given he’s an out-and-out holding midfielder.

Klopp’s midfield options have never been known for their attacking output anyway. That’s left to the full-backs and frontline, with Liverpool at their best under Klopp when his midfield focus on hounding the opposition with a smothering press.

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