Atletico Madrid have entered the race to sign highly sought-after free agent Marc Guehi next summer (h/t Marca).
The English centre-back’s contract expires at the end of the season, and the Eagles have confirmed that he will not sign an extension.
As a result, Guehi can sign a pre-agreement with the clubs outside England in January.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool and Bayern Munich are among the European heavyweights monitoring him keenly ahead of a potential free transfer.
Atletico have now thrown their hat in the ring for Guehi to bolster their backline and build a strong squad capable of winning silverware.
Los Rojiblancos currently boast Robin Le Normand, Jose Gimenez, David Hancko and Clement Lenglet as centre-back options.
Guehi’s addition would raise the bar at Atletico’s defence, and he could spearhead it for the foreseeable future.
The 25-year-old is a complete defender who stands out for his ball-playing, defensive solidity and athleticism.
Following the takeover of Apollo Sports Capital, Atletico are expected to show more ambition in the transfer market.
The new American owners will aim to revolutionise the squad and transform them into a European juggernaut.
Guehi wants to be part of a winning project and a team that regularly plays in the Champions League. Atletico will be a great fit for him.
However, Atletico will have to fend off competition from arch-rivals Madrid, who have also lined up Guehi as a top target for next summer.
With David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger facing uncertain futures due to the expiry of their contracts next summer, Los Blancos want to recruit a high-profile centre-back.
Barca have also expressed their interest in Guehi, but their financial issues could complicate their chances.
Bayern have identified Guehi as a potential alternative for Dayot Upamecano if he opts against signing a new deal.
