Atletico Madrid News
La Liga striker responds to Atletico Madrid transfer links: “Nothing to talk about”
Atletico Madrid are likely to make some tweaks to their squad in the upcoming January transfer window, with a new striker likely to be on top of director Andrea Berta’s agenda.
Considering that Los Rojiblancos have parted ways with Matheus Cunha and are looking to offload Joao Felix as well in January, they will be needing another forward to support the likes of Alvaro Morata and Antoine Griezmann.
And Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias has emerged as a transfer target for Atletico Madrid.
The 29-year-old has been with Los Verdiblancos since 2019 and is a critical player in Manuel Pellegrini’s setup. He has netted eight goals this season in La Liga and is said to be admired greatly by Diego Simeone, who will be keen on adding another No. 9 at his disposal.
Iglesias, who was surprisingly not called up for the FIFA World Cup 2022 by ex-Spain boss Luis Enrique, was asked about Atletico Madrid’s interest in him ahead of the January window in a recent interview.
Responding to the question, as quoted by El Chiringuito (h/t Mundo Deportivo), he said: “As of today I have nothing to talk about. I’m focused on Betis, on Thursday, on enjoying our fans again, on our stadium, and on winning.”
“How many of these things have we already experienced? We have to give it normality and be calm. I’m happy here and if at some point I have to talk, I’ll talk. No problem. We have joked about the situation and that’s it. Without giving it any importance,” he added.
Iglesias iterated that he is very happy at Real Betis and is not going to get involved in the transfer speculations, saying:
“I have always felt very loved. I’m very happy here and I’m grateful for that affection because I’m happy here. I have nothing to say about all this. I have little to contribute in this situation for now.”
While Atletico may be interested in Iglesias, his contract with Real Betis runs until 2026. So, it might not come as a surprise to see Los Verdiblancos demand a significant sum for his services. Further, Los Colchoneros must first part ways with Felix before they can think of signing Iglesias.
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.
