Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid hold talks to sign former Barcelona winger in Bosman deal – report
According to 90 min, Atletico Madrid have held talks with Wolves winger Adama Traore over a possible free transfer in the summer.
Traore, who has prior experience of playing in La Liga, having represented Barcelona in two separate stints, is set to become a free agent in the summer.
The Spanish international’s contract with Wolves expires at the end of the season and as per the report, an agreement over an extension is unlikely to be reached, even though he has been enjoying a decent run under new manager Julen Lopetegui.
And, Atletico Madrid, who are already working to sign another Premier League star in Caglar Soyuncu in a Bosman deal, have now set their sights on a move for Traore as well.
The 27-year-old spent the second half of the last season on loan at Barcelona and played his part in helping them finish as runners-up in La Liga.
However, the Catalans decided against signing him permanently, following which he returned to Wolves. But, Traore struggled for game-time in the early parts of the season back at the Molineux.
Things have improved gradually for him, especially with Lopetegui in charge. In all, he has played 21 league games (998 minutes), scoring and assisting one goal apiece.
Atletico Madrid are very likely to lose Yannick Carrasco in the summer. The Belgian international is a target for Barcelona, who secured a €20 million purchase option for him as part of the deal that saw Memphis Depay join the Rojiblancos in January.
Traore could be seen as a possible replacement for the winger. His ability to operate up the field or as a wing-back, coupled with his pace and physicality, could make him a good fit in Diego Simeone’s side.
It remains to be seen how talks progress between the two parties and whether Traore returns for a third stint in Spain after two spells with Barcelona.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
