Atletico Madrid Sporting Director at odds with Diego Simeone over midfield targets

Atletico Madrid will likely look to strengthen their midfield this summer, with Saul Niguez leaving, although it probably lies behind a number nine and a couple of central defenders on their priority list. They are yet to decide on who to go for as well.

Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino and Chelsea’s Connor Gallagher are both out of contract next summer, and with new deals looking unlikely, both are likely to move on. Diario AS report that Diego Simeone is pushing for the club to make a move for Merino, which they mention may cost around €30m.

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On the other hand, Sporting Director Andrea Berta prefers his opponent in the Euro 2024 final: the Italian feels that Chelsea midfielder Connor Gallagher is a great opportunity, and the England midfielder is just 24. They say that a deal for Gallagher is also likely to cost around €30m, after they had a €20m bid turned down.

Competition for both is likely to be fierce. Merino has been highlighted as one of the targets that Barcelona and Arsenal both like most to strengthen the middle of the park. Meanwhile Tottenham and Aston Villa will probably feel they can outmuscle Atletico financially for Gallagher, with both Premier League sides also showing an interest.

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