Although Atlético’s rearguard is taking on an increasingly sinuous and interesting shape, the same cannot be said of the attack. After Morata’s farewell and with Depay a free agent, Cholo Simeone has an absolute urgency to hire a new starting centre-forward. The strengths of the management of the colchoneros had focused on Artem Dovbyk, unfortunately Roma’s inclusion became concrete and uncomfortable in the long run. The negotiations between the Giallorossi and the Ukrainian have not yet been closed, but the words of agent Lundovskyi have drastically weakened the hopes of hiring the red and white.
Plan B
For this reason the hunt for the striker has resumed. According to the newspaper ASthere are several names noted on Atlético’s list: first and foremost Alexander Sorlotha 29-year-old Villarreal striker who scored 23 goals last season to become the second top scorer in La Liga. The Norwegian player has a release clause of €38 million, a figure similar to what Atlético’s transfer agents are willing to pay.
The alternatives
Gyokeres is a very ambitious name and one that mister Simeone would like otherwise. But also very expensive, given that Sporting Portugal is taking advantage of the clause imposed by 100 million euros, a deal that Atlético could never close, unless they manage to negotiate to lower the monstrous figure. But the “Cannibal” – as he is nicknamed – of Leos he is worth them all, with his 43 goals and 15 assists in 50 games, in addition to his age (26 years) of full maturation. The latest name to emerge is Jonathan David: his contract expires in 2025 and he has not renewed with Lille, the Canadian is 24 years old and has been linked to several big European clubs for years. However, Atlético still has doubts about this option, but evaluations are underway.