Monaco showed interest in Manfred Ugalde but eventually opted for Mika Biereth. Despite Ugalde's impressive performances, including scoring four goals in a derby against Lokomotiv Moscow, Monaco decided to pursue another option. Ugalde, currently the top scorer in the Russian Premier League with 15 goals in 18 matches, is being closely monitored by top European clubs for the January transfer window, but Monaco ultimately chose not to pursue a deal, focusing instead on securing Biereth.