Jugen Klopp may have identified a replacement for Thiago Alcantara, after the Spaniard was absent for the rest of the season with a thigh injury.
Liverpool host Fulham on Wednesday night and need 3 points to have a chance to qualify for the Champions League.
Klopp is eyeing a title-free season at Anfield, and will be eager for the summer transfer window when he can invest in the team.
The German is expected to pay attention to his midfield, which has been the subject of all the criticism this campaign.
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While news of Thiago's injury is expected to create greater demand for a new midfielder, Liverpool's list of potential targets seems to be growing by the day. However, based on the Reds' performances this season, Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte could be Liverpool's missing piece.
Ugarte to Liverpool?
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Ugarte has been Sporting's standout player this season with 44 appearances for the Portuguese side.
The 22-year-old ranks 99th in tackles to other midfielders, more than any of his teammates according to FBRef. While he was described by football scout Jacek Kuulig as a "warrior". Ugarte's attacks were less impressive as the Uruguayan had only one assist all season.
However, his ability to cover the pitch could give Trent Alexander-Arnold the freedom to move into midfield and play the role of Thiago.
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Alexander-Arnold has proven time and time again how threatening he can be with the ball at his feet, picking dangerous passes at will.
Ugarte's energetic style of play and 'warrior' mentality could help the right-back ease some defensive duties and allow Klopp to deploy the Englishman further on the pitch.
While Ugarte may struggle in Thiago's illusory midfield role, he could give Alexander-Arnold a chance. Liverpool have sent scouts to watch Ugarte play this weekend, according to the Daily Mail, and the club are said to have contacted the player about a possible move.
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Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Leeds are also said to be monitoring Ugarte, while Mikel Arteta has sent his recruitment team to watch him play.
Indeed, Portuguese outlet O Jogo claims a summer move is 'virtually inevitable' with Ugarte poised for a new challenge elsewhere.
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