Manchester City are in talks to sign Atletico Madrid winger Rodrigo Riquelme, according to Relevo.
The Cityzens have launched an official bid worth an initial €15 million plus a further €6m in add-ons, but that has been rejected by the Spanish giants.
Despite seeing their opening proposal rebuffed, the Premier League winners remain undeterred in their quest to recruit the dazzling Spanish winger this summer.
Riquelme enjoyed a successful loan stint with Girona last season, bagging four goals and four assists to help Michel Sanchez’s side finish the campaign in mid-table.
His impressive form has attracted interest from Man City, but Atletico want the 23-year-old winger to showcase his talent in pre-season before deciding on his long-term future.
Riquelme signed a new deal with Atletico last year, keeping him on the club’s books until 2028, but the contract reportedly has a release clause worth over €60m.
Despite his termination clause, Atletico are demanding €35m for the player who came through their youth ranks.
Although that figure is expected to come down in the latter part of the negotiations, Man City’s initial proposal falls way below their asking price.
However, talks are still ongoing between both clubs, and it is understood that an agreement is possible, although not imminent.
Riquelme is reportedly against another loan spell away from the Civitas Metropolitano. The winger is willing to fight for a place in Diego Simeone’s squad but would rather leave permanently if the club decides to part ways again.
Girona are open to retaining the Spaniard, who was a prominent figure for them last season, but the player would prefer to join a club that can offer European football.
Riquelme favours the left wing but is versatile enough to feature on both flanks. He is expected to provide back-up for Jack Grealish if Man City can wrap up a deal for his services.
Man City have been active this summer, but their transfer business is far from over, with the club still negotiating a mega-money deal to sign Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig.
