Atletico Madrid credited with interest in Galatasaray star – Football España

Atletico Madrid spent big again this summer, with a total spend of €176m before variables, and eight new players coming into their squad. Despite the major investment, there is a current of thinking that Diego Simeone does not have the rounded squad that he wants.

The last through the door was Nicolas Gonzalez from Juventus. The Argentina international signed on a €1m loan deal that could become obligatory depending on the number of starts he makes. However they have been linked with another winger that can also play on the right side.

Atletico Madrid linked to Yunus Akgun

According to Turkish outlet Takvim, via Diario AS, Atletico Madrid are interested in Galatasaray winger Yunus Akgun. Their information is that Los Rojiblancos could consider a January offer for the Turkiye international. Scouts were sent by Atletico to watch Akgun in action against Spain in Konya last week, which ended up in a 6-0 demolition. The 25-year-old started on the right, and came off after 45 minutes with his side 3-0 down. It is noted that Galatasaray have no plans to sell Akgun.

Akgun’s rise to international position

Turkiye are not short of options in the attacking third though, and Akgun starting is an indicator of his rise to prominence. After spending a year on loan at Leicester City in the Championship without making a great impression, Akgun returned to Galatasaray and scored 12 goals and gave 14 assists in his 48 appearances last season. He stands out for his incisive passing, dribbling, and ability to cut in and shoot from the right, onto his left.

Atletico options on the right

The signing of Gonzalez makes a move highly unlikely, and still more so if they end up committing to a €32m move for the Juventus man. Were he to depart next summer, then perhaps Los Rojiblancos would move for another winger, to do as Gonzalez is – competing with Giuliano Simeone on the right side of midfield.