Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid youngster snubs Manchester United, Arsenal offers to sign new contract
Atletico Madrid have made some important strides in their bid to sustain the quality of the youth setup. A few days ago, the club announced the renewal of youth superstar Adrian Nino, who had raised many eyebrows with his performances in the youth competitions.
According to MARCA, Atleti are now expected to wrap up a renewal of Abde Raihani. The Barcelona native is regarded as one of the top players in Atleti’s U19 squad and is set soon pen a new deal with the Spanish giants.
A centre-forward by trade, Raihani has caused problems for the opposition defenders in the Juvenil leagues with his ability to find scoring opportunities, coupled with his flexibility in the final third. It has seen him score 16 goals at that level, while the youngster has also netted thrice in the UEFA Youth League.
The report suggests Raihani’s performances had not gotten unnoticed by European giants. The likes of Manchester United and Arsenal were keeping close tabs on his progress at Atletico Madrid and had tabled offers to sign up the 18-year-old.
But it appears the teenage sensation is willing to continue in the Spanish capital, having rejected the advances of both the Premier League giants, along with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Despite his Barcelona heritage, the youngster prefers to continue his development under Atleti’s youth academy.
Los Rojiblancos extended the contract of Nino until 2027, and Raihani too will pen a four-year deal. The report adds that the Spanish giants are keen on adding a release clause worth €70 million.
This will be done in order to fend off other suitors, especially from the Premier League and to safeguard the attacker’s future at the Civitas Metropolitano.
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.
