Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid join Barcelona, Chelsea in pursuit of Croatian international
Josip Juranovic was one of the mainstays in the Croatian national team that made it to the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Following his impressive displays, the Celtic defender has suddenly become a man in demand in the transfer market.
Indeed, according to Sky Sports, Juranovic has emerged as a transfer target for heavy-hitters like Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, and Chelsea.
Juranovic has been with Celtic since 2021 and has become a household name in Glasgow thanks to his performances for the Hoops. In 50 appearances thus far, he has six goals and three assists for Ange Postecoglou’s side.
The 27-year-old had a good run at the World Cup as well which has put him on the radars of several clubs, including Atletico Madrid.
Los Rojiblancos strengthened the right-back slot in the summer with the signing of Nahuel Molina, who won the World Cup with Argentina. While he has shown signs of potential, Molina has not entirely convinced.
Plus with no viable backup for him, it is understandable that Diego Simeone & co. are monitoring Juranovic.
However, while Atletico Madrid are keeping tabs on the Croatian international, the likes of Barcelona and Chelsea could actually make a move for him come January.
The Blaugrana’s pursuit of a new right-back is no secret and Juranovic is on their agenda, although Financial Fair Play issues could stop them from signing him.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have expressed an interest in the Celtic defender following an injury relapse to Reece James which has sidelined him for at least another month.
Celtic, for their part, are keen on keep hold of Juranovic and also planning to hand him a new contract despite his current deal running until 2026. However, with interest rising in him, the Scottish giants are bracing for bids in the winter.
It seems unlikely that Atletico Madrid could make a move for the Croatian even though they are monitoring him. They are focused on recruiting a new No. 9 with Matheus Cunha leaving and Joao Felix also headed for the exit doors.
Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid among clubs weighing up a summer move for €20 million Barcelona defender
Having successfully raided FC Barcelona for the signing of Memphis Depay during the January transfer window, Atletico Madrid could look to bring in another player from Spotify Camp Nou come summer.
Indeed, according to SPORT, Atletico are among clubs who are interested in signing Barcelona ace Sergino Dest, who is currently away on loan at AC Milan.
Dest has been out of favour at Barça since Xavi Hernandez arrived at the club back in November 2021. The USMNT right-back was sent out on loan to Milan last summer so that he can play regularly.
The Rossoneri have the option of signing the ex-Ajax man permanently for €20 million, but are unlikely to take it up as the right-back has largely underwhelmed during his time in Italy, playing just 14 games in all competitions.
But, that has seemingly not deterred clubs in La Liga, including Atletico Madrid, who are reportedly willing to take a punt on Dest in the summer.
As things stand, Atletico have Nahuel Molina as their primary right-back, but the Argentine has not been consistent enough in his debut season at the club.
Matt Doherty arrived on a free transfer from Tottenham in January but has only played 12 minutes so far, indicating where he stands in Diego Simeone’s scheme. So, a new right-back might not entirely be ruled out at the Civitas Metropolitano come summer.
Dest, though, is also attracting interest from Sevilla, Valencia and Villarreal, while an unnamed MLS club also want the right-back.
Barcelona, for their part, wish to recoup the €20 million they spent on him almost three years ago, which could become a roadblock for Atletico Madrid if they do indeed pursue the right-back with greater intent.
As things stand, there is just initial interest and there is nothing concrete from Atletico or any clubs. Only time will tell if that changes once Dest returns from his loan spell.
